Research Engineer (Humanoid Robotics and Embodied AI) - EA8 (1030)

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to develop industry-relevant applied research skillsets while working on translational robotics and AI projects.The primary responsibility of this role is to support a joint SIT–DSO research project focused on evaluating and developing humanoid robot capabilities for door opening and doorway traversal in human-centric environments. The Research Engineer will contribute to humanoid robot system integration, teleoperation-based data collection, simulation-based synthetic data generation using NVIDIA Isaac Sim, and learning-based policy development for manipulation and locomotion tasks. The role will involve both experimental robotics work and AI model development for sim-to-real humanoid manipulation research.Key ResponsibilitiesParticipate in and manage the research project together with the Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI, and research team members to ensure project deliverables are achieved.Undertake the following responsibilities in the project:Humanoid Robot System IntegrationConfigure and integrate humanoid robot hardware and software systems for door opening and doorway traversal tasks.Support calibration, perception, locomotion, manipulation, and control pipeline integration.Experimental Testbed DevelopmentDesign and set up representative door interaction experimental environments.Conduct baseline testing and benchmarking for humanoid manipulation and traversal tasks.Teleoperation and Data CollectionDevelop and operate teleoperation pipelines for humanoid robot data collection.Collect, process, and manage robot demonstration datasets including perception, robot states, and control data.Simulation and Synthetic Data GenerationDevelop simulation environments and synthetic data generation workflows using NVIDIA Isaac Sim and Omniverse technologies.Implement domain randomization and scenario variation pipelines for robust sim-to-real learning.AI Model DevelopmentSupport development and evaluation of learning-based control policies using reinforcement learning, imitation learning, and visuomotor learning approaches.Assist in model training, testing, benchmarking, and deployment on real robotic platforms.Research and Technical ReportingConduct literature reviews and experimental studies related to humanoid robotics and sim-to-real learning.Prepare technical reports, publications, and presentation materials for project reviews and dissemination.Carry out Risk Assessment and ensure compliance with Workplace Safety and Health regulations.Coordinate procurement and liaison with vendors/suppliers.Work independently and within a multidisciplinary team to ensure proper operation and maintenance of robotics equipment and experimental infrastructure.Assist in co-supervision of Final Year Project (FYP) or capstone students together with the project PI.To communicate and liaise with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any other ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisors.Key RequirementsBachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields.Experience in robotics software development using ROS/ROS2.Experience with robotic simulation platforms such as NVIDIA Isaac Sim, Isaac Lab, Gazebo, or MuJoCo.Familiarity with humanoid robots, robotic manipulators, or locomotion systems.Knowledge of machine learning, reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or computer vision techniques for robotics applications.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Good written and verbal communication skills.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.The following will be advantageous:Experience with teleoperation systems and data collection pipelines.Experience with NVIDIA Omniverse or sim-to-real workflows.Experience with reinforcement learning frameworks or visuomotor policy training.Experience working with dexterous hands or humanoid manipulation platforms.Key CompetenciesStrong interest in robotics and embodied AI research.Able to build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.Self-directed learner with strong initiative and ownership of work.Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.Proficient in technical writing and presentation.Able to work effectively in experimental and rapidly evolving research environments.