The Italian Institute for Artificial Intelligence (AI4I) invites applications for a research fellow position in Software Engineering for Robotics (or AI-enabled Cyber-Physical Systems).
The IDeaLS Lab at AI4I, Italy’s national AI center, is seeking a highly motivated researcher with a strong background in Software Engineering, Robotics, Human-Robot Interaction (HRI), or AI-enabled Cyber-Physical Systems (AI-CPS). The candidate will conduct research on human-centered robotics with an emphasis on intelligent software pipelines, collaborating closely with industrial partners in robotics and automation. For strong performers, there is the opportunity to apply for a formal PhD program, funded by AI4I and in collaboration with a prestigious Italian university.
The Role
As a Researcher, you will pursue original research at the intersection of software engineering and human-robot interaction, focusing on designing robust, adaptive, and user-aware software frameworks for collaborative robots. You will contribute to research prototypes, industrial applications, and publications, gaining experience in software pipelines, MLOps, and large-scale cyber-physical systems.
Your Responsibilities
- Conduct research on software engineering methods for human-centered and collaborative robotics systems.
- Develop adaptive, reliable, and safe software pipelines for AI-enabled robots in industrial and service environments.
- Design and evaluate MLOps frameworks for deployment of AI models in robotic systems.
- Perform simulation and real-world experiments with human-robot collaboration scenarios.
- Collaborate closely with software engineers, robotics experts, HRI researchers, and industrial partners.
- Contribute to academic publications in Software Engineering, Robotics, and Human-Robot Interaction venues (e.g., ICSE, ASE, ICRA, IROS, HRI, TSE).
- Support development of prototypes and demonstrators for industrial collaborations.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, AI, or related fields.
- Strong programming skills in Python, C/C++, or similar languages.
- Interest in software engineering for robotics, human-robot interaction, and AI-enabled CPS.
- Familiarity with robotics simulation environments, real-world experimental setups, and large-scale software systems.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with ROS, Gazebo, AirSim, or other robotics/HRI simulation platforms.
- Publications in Software Engineering, Robotics, or Human-Robot Interaction are a plus.
- Knowledge of MLOps, CI/CD for intelligent systems, safety, and explainability.
- Experience with industrial robotics, collaborative robots, or automation pipelines.
What We Offer
- Work in a pioneering research team at the intersection of software engineering, AI, and human-centered robotics.
- Opportunities to publish in top-tier academic venues and contribute to industrial projects and European initiatives.
- Collaboration with leading robotics companies on applied research and prototyping.
- Access to state-of-the-art robotics labs, HPC infrastructure, and simulation platforms.
- Location at OGR Torino, a vibrant hub for technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Position Details
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible in 2026
- Location: Turin, Italy (on-site)
- Supervision: Dr. Sebastiano Panichella
- Affiliation: AI4I – IDeaLS Lab
How to Apply
Please submit a single PDF containing:
- CV with list of publications
- Brief research statement (1–2 pages)
- Link to GitHub or personal webpage (if available)
- Names of two references
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
