Postdoc on modeling, simulation and design of self-locking mechanisms for fall mitigation exosk[...]

Organisation/Company Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Research Field Engineering Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Application Deadline 30 Apr 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Country Italy Type of Contract Other Job Status Other Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Commitment & contract: Postdoc, fixed term contract until the end of the project

Location: Center for Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Via San Quirico 19D, 16163 Genova (GE), Italy

Step into a world of endless possibilities, together let’s leave something for the future!

At IIT, we are committed to advancing human-centered Science and Technology to address the most urgent societal challenges of our era. We foster excellence in both fundamental and applied research, spanning fields such as neuroscience and cognition, humanoid technologies and robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and material sciences, offering a truly interdisciplinary scientific experience. Our approach integrates cutting-edge tools and technology, empowering researchers to push the limits of knowledge and innovation. With us, your curiosity will know no bounds.

We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment. We value the unique experiences, knowledge, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives of our people. By embracing diversity, we believe science can achieve its fullest potential.

THE ROLE

You will be working in a multicultural and multi-disciplinary group, where junior and senior scientists collaborate, each with their expertise, to carry out a scientific activity with a shared research goal.

The Advanced Robotics Research unit (ADVR) is coordinated by Prof. Darwin Caldwell. The research focuses on the development of wearable technologies for protection and prevention against falling from heights in working environments. This includes modeling, simulation and design of passive self-locking mechanisms and joints, FEM analysis on mechanical components, CFD analysis of flow, pressure and viscosity of fluids in complex structures, system design, exoskeleton testing, and evaluation.

Within the research team, your main responsibilities will be:

• Modeling, simulating and design of self-locking mechanisms for occupational exoskeletons
• FEM analysis on mechanical components to evaluate stress, strains and deformations
• Fluid dynamics modeling and definition of fluid composition performing CFD analysis of flow, pressure and viscosity
• Performing data collection in laboratory and/or industrial setups
• Performing system evaluation in laboratory and/or industrial setups

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

• A PhD in mechanical engineering, materials engineering, robotic engineering or similar disciplines
• Documented experience in FEM analysis and CFD analysis
• Strong publication record
• Good command of spoken and written English
• Ability to properly report, organize and publish research reports

ADDITIONAL SKILLS

• Knowledge of hydraulic actuation of joints
• Experience in design, testing and integration of mechanical components
• Knowledge of fluid dynamics, shear-thickening fluids, electro-hydraulic actuators
• Ability to work in a challenging and international environment
• Capacity to work autonomously and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary environment
• Possess Analytical Reasoning skills and a growth mindset

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

• A yearly gross salary ranging between 38,000.00 € and 45,000.00 €, depending on the experience of the candidate.
• Private health care coverage depending on your role and contract.
• Candidates from abroad or Italian citizens who have carried scientific research activity permanently abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a deduction from taxable income of up to 90% from 6 to 13 years.

Please submit your application using the online form and including a detailed CV, university transcripts, cover letter, and contact details of 2 references.