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Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering :
Chair of Computing in Engineering
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date or by November 2026, we are looking for a
Research associate (m/f/x) / PhD Candidate (m/f/x) in Humanoid Robotics for Construction
The Chair of Computing in Engineering at Ruhr University Bochum conducts research at the intersection of civil engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, digital twins and robotics. Our research focuses on developing digital and automated methods for the planning, construction, operation, inspection and circular transformation of the built environment.
The advertised position focuses on the development and application of humanoid robotic systems for construction and the inspection of existing structures. The research will investigate how humanoid robots can safely and reliably perceive complex construction environments, navigate within them, interact with building components and operate tools or measurement devices. A particular focus will be placed on combining robot perception, task and motion planning, manipulation, locomotion and artificial intelligence with digital building models and digital twins. Potential application scenarios include automated building inspection, material testing, construction progress monitoring, assembly and disassembly processes, maintenance activities and the assessment of building components for reuse. The position offers the opportunity to pursue a doctorate in an interdisciplinary and internationally connected research environment.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: at the earliest possible date or by November 2026
Apply by: 2026-09-15
Your tasks:
- Developing methods for the autonomous and semi-autonomous operation of humanoid robots in construction environments
- Integrating robot perception, navigation, manipulation and tool use
- Connecting robotic systems with Building Information Models and digital twins
- Implementing and evaluating the developed methods in laboratory and realistic construction scenarios
- Publishing and presenting research results and supporting student projects
Your profile:
- A university degree, preferably a Master’s degree, in robotics, computer science, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering or a related field
- Knowledge of robotics, autonomous systems, computer vision or artificial intelligence
- Programming skills in Python and/or C++
- Experience with Linux and preferably ROS or ROS 2
- Interest in experimental research with robotic systems
- Good written and spoken English skills
We offer:
- Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence
- Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team
- A job in the heart of the lively Ruhr metropolitan region with its diverse cultural offerings
- A workplace in a green environment with direct access to the botanical garden of Ruhr University Bochum
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E 13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Markus König , Tel.: +49 234 32 23047
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-09-15. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 6037.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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