Data Scientist

Join a highly interdisciplinary and innovative team at MIRMI to conduct cutting-edge research in robotic manipulation of deformable objects. The positions focus on motion planning and control of 1D and 2D deformable objects (e.g., cables, cloth) through bimanual and adaptive robotic strategies.

The work will involve the integration of:

• Advanced motion planning and control algorithms
• Multi-modal perception techniques (e.g., vision, tactile, force)
• Machine learning models for physical behavior prediction and manipulation strategy adaptation
• Real-world robotic systems, including dual-arm manipulators and soft robotic grippers

Key Research Topics

• Robotic manipulation of deformable linear (e.g., cables) and surface objects (e.g., fabrics)
• Bimanual coordination and manipulation planning
• Vision- and tactile-based perception and state estimation of deformable objects
• Simulation and reality gap bridging for deformable object interaction (MuJoCo, PyBullet, NVIDIA Isaac Sim)
• Adaptive feedback control using learned and analytical models
• Physics-informed machine learning for deformation modeling and prediction
• Integration of perception, planning, and control for robust real-time robotic performance

We are seeking highly qualified and motivated individuals with a strong academic background in robotics and a keen interest in advancing the frontiers of deformable object manipulation. Ideal candidates are those aiming for a long-term research career in academia or industry., * Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field

• Strong background in robotics fundamentals: kinematics, dynamics, control, planning
• Proficiency in programming (C++, Python), and experience with ROS
• Experience with simulation tools such as MuJoCo, Gazebo
• Prior exposure to machine learning and perception systems is an advantage
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English, * Ph.D. in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field
• Proven research experience and publication track record in robotic manipulation, deformable object handling, or related domains
• Hands-on experience with robotic hardware (e.g., robot arms, tactile sensors)
• Familiarity with model-based planning approaches, robot force/motion control, and reinforcement learning
• Strong project management and mentoring skills
• Excellent command of English; German is a plus but not required, 2. Academic transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's degrees for PhD applicants; also PhD certificate for Postdoc applicants)

3. Two to three representative publications or writing samples (e.g., Master's thesis, conference papers)

• A highly dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at one of Europe's top technical universities
• Access to state-of-the-art robotics labs and collaborative projects with leading industrial partners
• Opportunities to publish in top-tier conferences and journals (ICRA, RSS, IJRR)
• Active participation in European robotics and AI research initiatives
• Support for personal and professional development, including teaching, supervision, and leadership roles
• Competitive compensation in line with the German public service salary scale (TV-L)

Located in the prosperous capital of Bavaria and home to over 50,000 students, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of the world's top universities (top 3 European technical universities in THE World University Ranking, top 50 in Shanghai Ranking, top 10 in Global University Employability Ranking, etc.). It is home to one of the most vibrant environments in robotics research, industry and startups. The Munich Institute of Robotics and Machine Intelligence (MIRMI) is a globally visible interdisciplinary research center for machine intelligence, integrating robotics, artificial intelligence and perception. Its central innovation sectors are the future of health, the future of work, the future of the environment, and the future of mobility. 70 professors from various TUM faculties cooperate within MIRMI.