Research Fellow A in Autonomous Robotics for Environmental Science

University of Surrey

  • Guildford, Surrey
  • £37,694-41,064 per year
  • Contract
  • Full-time
  • 7 days ago
Fixed-Term until 06/06/2026The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas & people, dedicated to life-changing education and research.We are ambitious and have a bold vision of what we want to achieve - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world, which we are achieving through the talents and endeavour of every employee.Our culture empowers people to achieve this aim and to collectively, & individually, make a real difference.The roleA research fellow position is available to work on the project “Dynamic and Adaptable Monitoring of Greenhouse Gas Emissions with Robots” funded by the UKRI Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) at the University of Surrey.Accurately measuring greenhouse gas emissions from human activity is challenging. Static sensors only measure one point in space, but sensors mounted to unmanned aircraft are noisy and can only fly for a short time. We are addressing this challenge by building an autonomous, mobile gas flux tower, consisting of a helium-filled aerodynamic kite tethered to an autonomous ground vehicle. Multiple vehicles operating together will create high resolution maps of emissions and airflow, at unprecedented spatial resolutions.The project will be carried out in a newly outfitted robotics facility at the University of Surrey, with access to the Environmental Flow Laboratory wind tunnel facilities, gas analysis laboratories, and outdoor test spaces. The project will include industrial collaboration for extensive fieldwork at a variety of sites in southeast England, and the Ebro Delta in Spain.This post is available immediately, and is required to end in June 2026 (although funding is in place for a six-month extension). The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team in Mechanical Engineering and Civil and Environmental Engineering, and will have the following responsibilities:
  • Development and implementation of hardware and software;
  • Data analysis and modelling;
  • Coordination of field measurement and data analysis;
  • Writing reports and publications;
  • Supporting project team and organising project meetings;
The project includes generous equipment budget and funding for both conference travel and international fieldwork to test the proposed system.For more information, please contact Dr. David Birch atProject Team
(Sensing and Instrumentation) (Environmental Monitoring) (Fluid Mechanics and Data Analysis) (Remote Sensing) (Robotics)About youThis is a multidisciplinary project and scientists/engineers with a broad skillset are sought. Beneficial previous experience could include (but is not limited to): robotics and autonomous systems development, environmental science fieldwork, electronics design, and data science. Knowledge of Python, C++, Matlab or ROS would be of benefit. The project involves extensive fieldwork, and candidates should enjoy working outdoors.How to applyPlease submit a CV and cover letter with your application on the University website.Further detailsFor more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'Apply' button above.In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate, flexible working options including job share & blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes & supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all.£37,694 to £41,064 per annum

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