Research associate (m/f/x) / PhD Candidate (m/f/x) in Humanoid Robotics for Construction

In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date or by November 2026, we are looking for a

Research associate (m/f/x) / PhD Candidate (m/f/x) in Humanoid Robotics for Construction

The Chair of Computing in Engineering at Ruhr University Bochum conducts research at the intersection of civil engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, digital twins and robotics. Our research focuses on developing digital and automated methods for the planning, construction, operation, inspection and circular transformation of the built environment.

The advertised position focuses on the development and application of humanoid robotic systems for construction and the inspection of existing structures. The research will investigate how humanoid robots can safely and reliably perceive complex construction environments, navigate within them, interact with building components and operate tools or measurement devices. A particular focus will be placed on combining robot perception, task and motion planning, manipulation, locomotion and artificial intelligence with digital building models and digital twins. Potential application scenarios include automated building inspection, material testing, construction progress monitoring, assembly and disassembly processes, maintenance activities and the assessment of building components for reuse. The position offers the opportunity to pursue a doctorate in an interdisciplinary and internationally connected research environment.

Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: at the earliest possible date or by November 2026
Apply by: 2026-09-15

Your tasks:

• Developing methods for the autonomous and semi-autonomous operation of humanoid robots in construction environments
• Integrating robot perception, navigation, manipulation and tool use
• Connecting robotic systems with Building Information Models and digital twins
• Implementing and evaluating the developed methods in laboratory and realistic construction scenarios
• Publishing and presenting research results and supporting student projects

Your profile:

• A university degree, preferably a Master’s degree, in robotics, computer science, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering or a related field
• Knowledge of robotics, autonomous systems, computer vision or artificial intelligence
• Programming skills in Python and/or C++
• Experience with Linux and preferably ROS or ROS 2
• Interest in experimental research with robotic systems
• Good written and spoken English skills

[https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/7cee879e27bebd888666ba5681c5d8622db6f57f0?ref=AfA](https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/7cee879e27bebd888666ba5681c5d8622db6f57f0?ref=AfA)