Key Responsibilities

• Research, ideate, and implement application of Large Models (LLMs/VLMs) to develop complex, human-level manipulation behaviors for real-world robots.
• Research & Development of machine learning algorithms such as reinforcement learning and imitation learning for contact rich dexterous manipulation policy.
• Implementing the algorithms in simulation and verify on robot hardware.
• Validate the results through comprehensive data analysis and successful demonstrations on hardware.
• Deliver results in accordance with the project timelines.
• Assist with compiling written and oral reports for executives within the company and run demos.
• Contribute to the portfolio of patents, academic publications, and prototypes to demonstrate research value.
• Collaborate with our teams of scientists and engineers in Honda’s regional and global R&D offices, as well as with our partners in academia and industry.
• Supervise interns.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in robotics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Expert Knowledge on learning-based methods such as reinforcement learning, generative models and inference.
• Experience with robotic manipulation, planning, control, and dynamics for autonomous systems.
• Familiarity with transformer models and (multimodal) foundation models.
• Solid knowledge of fundamentals of robotics. (e.g. robot kinematics and dynamics, control systems, haptics.)
• Strong track record of publishing in top robotics and machine learning venues.
• Solid programming skills in C++ or Python and strong familiarity with ROS.
• Self-motivated to advance the project and deliver on time.
• Strong written and oral communication skills including development and delivery of presentations, papers, and technical documents.