About the Role
The Research Assistant will play a key role in investigating the feasibility and practical deployment of robotic solutions for large‑scale cleaning operations. Working closely with the collaborating company, the RA will help assess real‑world challenges and evaluate how different robotic mechanisms can address them.
The role will involve supporting the study of implementation issues associated with robotic cleaning systems, including analysing the suitability of various robotic platforms, identifying task‑specific challenges, and contributing to the development of bespoke gripper concepts for cleaning tasks. The RA will work with actual robots available within NTU Engineering, conducting preliminary experiments to evaluate capabilities, limitations, and potential operational risks.
A significant part of the role will include gathering data on technical performance, resource requirements, safety considerations, and return‑on‑investment (RoI). The RA will help synthesise these findings into assessments that integrate both engineering feasibility and business/management perspectives.
The RA will contribute to planning, note‑taking, analysis, and the preparation of reports. This role is ideal for someone enthusiastic about robotics, human–robot interaction, and applied research with industry impact. It offers a valuable opportunity to gain hands‑on experience with advanced robotic systems, collaborate with external partners, and contribute to a project with direct commercial and societal relevance.
About Us
The School of Science and Technology at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is an exciting multidisciplinary environment for learning, teaching and research, with some of the best facilities in the UK.
We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality teaching and diverse, real-world research. We specialise in biosciences, chemistry, computing and technology, as well as engineering, forensic science, mathematics, physics and sport science. This mix of traditional and modern subjects encourages and inspires future innovators.
In the Department of Engineering we deliver research and teaching in electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering and sport engineering. We are building a global reputation in areas including human performance and human factors, future materials, biomedical engineering, and robotics. We are working with industrial partners in technology, automotive, aircraft, marine, healthcare engineering, and with sports teams to help them beat world records.
For any informal queries about the role or the team, please contact Azfar Khalid (Senior Lecturer) at azfar.khalid@ntu.ac.uk.
Join Us
- 30 - 35 days annual leave per year plus statutory bank holidays and 5 university closure days pro rata
- Hybrid working - we encourage and offer a mixture of office working and working from home. You're empowered to define how you work best for the benefits of your stakeholders.
- Flexibility - take ownership over how you get your work done. We're open to different working patterns and approaches.
- Salary Sacrifice Retirement Savings Plan with life assurance and income protection. Available to colleagues who choose to opt out of the contractual pension scheme. Minimum colleague contributions of 0% matched with minimum NTU contributions of 8%.
- Access to a wealth of formal and informal professional development opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.
- Range of health and wellbeing services, including a Health Cash Plan, voluntary benefits, discounts, and savings for all colleagues.
- And a whole lot more…Find out more about the range of benefits we offer.
Come and be part of our success. Apply today.
Safe and Inclusive
At NTU, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse voices and experiences of our students and colleagues. By championing positive wellbeing, we promote an environment where all can thrive and reach their full potential. We welcome the unique contributions that you can bring and we encourage people from underrepresented communities and backgrounds to apply to join our team.
Please note that unfortunately, this role has been assessed as ineligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration points-based immigration system however, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position. For more information visit the Government Skilled Worker visa support page. However, applications are welcome from candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK, but who would be eligible to obtain a valid visa via another route. Please consult the Home Office website for further information.
Please note that this role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and successful applicants will be asked to declare any unspent criminal convictions.
