Postdoctoral Research Associate - Robotics Institute

Posted:
7/1/2026, 2:13:16 AM

Location(s):
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States ⋅ Pennsylvania, United States

Experience Level(s):
Mid Level ⋅ Senior

Field(s):
Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute is searching for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join their team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate is to carry out advanced independent and/or directed research to achieve the objectives of the research project. This position will require an in depth knowledge of a specialized field, process, or discipline and may involve organizing and implementing complex research plans, the development of methods of research, testing and data collection, analysis and evaluation, and writing reports which contain descriptive, analytical and evaluative content. The purpose of this role is to acquire the professional skills needed to pursue a career path of his or her choosing.

Responsibilities:

  • Recruit participants for research studies.

  • Perform approved research project tasks according to defined protocols and procedures including appropriate collection, recording, storage, and analysis of data, and reporting of results.

  • Ensure the proper preparation of equipment calibration for research project.

  • Maintain appropriate equipment maintenance and usage by ensuring the adherence to laboratory standards.

  • A key responsibility of the position will be to communicate progress regularly to the project sponsor. The candidate will prepare and present weekly updates, including research progress, technical challenges, experimental results, milestones, and next steps. The candidate should be comfortable explaining complex technical ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences

  • We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on 3D Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models for robotics and embodied AI. The position will focus on developing new methods that combine 3D perception, visual representation learning, language understanding, and action generation for intelligent robotic systems.

  • Collect and analyze data, including periodical/literature search and utilizing specialized skills in related field to analyze the collected data.

  • Conduct research experiments within the predetermined research scope and methodology of department and university.

  • Lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering of supplies may be required depending on area and specialty.

  • Participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and/or presentations. May also assist in grant writing.

  • Other duties as assigned.

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

  • Doctorate Degree

Are you interested in this exciting opportunity?! Apply today!

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & Fellows

Position Type

Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information: 

  • Please visit Why Carnegie Mellonto learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. 

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

  • Statement of Assurance