Postdoctoral Scholar - Neurobotics Cluster - Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Case Western Reserve University, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering is seeking to fill two postdoctoral scholar positions in the Neurorobotics Cluster, specifically working on biologically-inspired robotics mentored by Associate Professor Kathryn Daltorio. Our group is broadly interested in learning from animals on how to make robots better navigate challenging terrain.

Our goal is to create pipelines for biologically-inspired robots to fill unmet societal needs. Currently we have several ongoing projects: soft robots in confined spaces to support infrastructure expansion, dynamic modeling of decision-making with saddle equilibria and crab-like robots for dexterous manipulation underwater.

Anticipated start date January 2027, with two year mentoring plan to be developed with postdoc.

Responsibilities

Own one or more major focus within one of our existing projects, overseeing and executing project milestones and delegating tasks as necessary. In particular, development of intuitive user interfaces, robust electromechanical systems and sensor arrays are needed for our soft body worm-like robots. Control approaches for dexterous manipulation with walking legs, multifunctionality in legs for different terrains are needed for our legged crab-like robots.

All of our physical robots depend on effective contact with natural substrates (soils, pebbles, sand) and thus control that takes into account perception and reaction to these forces will be needed, and are potential focus directions. (70%) Write and publish papers. Keep up to date on current literature in relevant areas of robotics, materials, controls, AI, neurobiology, as needed to plan and write research.

Use of tools for making figures and obtaining experimental data (10%) Work with existing team members and new incoming graduate students. We are highly collaborative research team, so communication with scientists and engineers across different fields is particularly important. Candidate will be expected to practice thoughtful leadership skills : breaking a problem into delegatable parts, making contributions in the context of larger team goals, and set standards of research integrity and collegiality.

(10%) Travel for research and conferences (10%) **In compliance with the City of Cleveland’s Pay Transparency Ordinance (effective October 27, 2025), the annual starting base salary range for this position is $55,000 - $63,480. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer.

Postdocs receive individual and family healthcare benefits, life insurance, and employee assistance.

Minimum Qualifications

Possess or be on track to complete a doctorate in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering or a doctorate in Computer Science with emphasis related to robotics. Have published at least two first author publications in relevant journals. Proficient in at least two major skill bases: Design and implementation of electromechanical systems Programming – C++, Python, ROS2 Computer Aided Design – Solidworks preferred Motion Capture Videography and Analysis – Qualisys preferred Robotic Simulation – Mu.

JoCo preferred Robotic Navigation and Control Systems Excellent written and oral communication skills necessary. Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Nice to Have

Familiarity with soil dynamics and/or resistive force theory Familiarity with biomimetics, bio-inspired design, or biomechanics Familiarity with fluid mechanics Experience with robot data collection and tracking

Review of applications will begin on October 30, 2026 , and will continue until both the positions are filled. Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

• A cover letter describing their research interests and relevant qualifications;
• A current curriculum vitae;
• Academic transcripts;
• At least three current letter of recommendation; and
• A writing sample (e.g., a published or submitted journal article, conference paper, or dissertation chapter). Application materials should be submitted electronically to through Interfolio. Selected candidates will be invited for an online interview via Zoom.