T273-2025 - Research Associate / PostDoc (all genders) in Distributed Robotics

TU Darmstadt stands for excellent and relevant science. We are playing a decisive role in shaping far-reaching processes of global change—from energy transition to artificial intelligence—through outstanding scientific knowledge and innovative academic programmes. We group our cutting-edge research into three fields: Energy and Environment, Information and Intelligence, Matter and Materials. We are a university with strong ties to the Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region and a very strong international focus. We are committed to European values and European integration.

Resilient Cyber-Physical Systems(RCPS) is a new research group founded by Prof. Roderich Gross at the Department of Computer Science. We conduct foundational research into information processing of distributed robotics systems. The components of these systems can be loosely coupled, as in robot swarms. But they can also be tightly coupled, as in shape-changing modular robots. We seek to invent new concepts and methods for crafting, deploying and analysing robots at scale, and study how they can best support humans. Natural systems (e.g. colonies of social insects and groups of mammals) may serve as models, offering high autonomy, adaptability, and resilience. By transferring these attributes to robotic systems, we expect to increase their acceptance and usefulness, and contribute to responsible innovations that help fulfil societal needs. By testing novel theories, we also seek to deepen the understanding of natural systems.

RCPS is embedded in a vibrant research environment and offers outstanding research facilities. In May 2025, Technical University of Darmstadt secured major funding for research in the field of AI via Clusters of Excellence “Reasonable Artificial Intelligence” and “The Adaptive Mind”. The Department of Computer Science consistently ranks among the top in Germany. We are part of Robotics Institute GermanyandemergenCITY, and work closely together with international partners, including the Natural Robotics Lab (University of Sheffield). We are looking forward to hosting the ANTS conference in 2026 (ants2026.org)!

You will conduct blue sky science with the potential to significantly shape the field of distributed robotics. Your research explores approaches that enable large groups of robots to perform tasks in a safe, robust and efficient manner. It could range from the discovery of fundamental principles to the application of methods from other fields, for example, addressing the question: Can we create systems that operate over extended periods of time in real-world environments with humans?

You will 

• design and conduct ground-breaking research studies in distributed robotics and publish the findings in leading journals and conferences (e.g. RSS, ICRA, IJRR, T-RO, Science Robotics, Nature)
• co-supervise PhD students working on broad range of topics in distributed robotics, including human-swarm interaction, multi-robot coordination, modular robots
• prepare proposals for research funding in distributed robotics
• participate in existing research projects such as the realization of novel test environments for swarms of outdoor rovers as part of the Robotics Institute Germany project
• contribute to a collaborative, creative, and inclusive group culture

• A PhD degree (awarded by the start date of employment) in a program of study related to distributed robotics
• A strong track record of research publications in distributed robotics (e.g. papers in IJRR, T-RO, Science Robotics, RSS, ICRA/IROS, AAMAS, MRS, ANTS, DARS)
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Experience in the supervision of PhD students and of MSc and BSc dissertation projects
• Creativity, analytical thinking, and a collaborative spirit
• Experience with realising research projects and working in diverse, interdisciplinary teams

Technical University of Darmstadt offers varied and challenging assignments, freedom to work independently, the latest technologies, good collaboration between colleagues in partnership, needs-based training opportunities and customised personnel development.

The fulfillment of the duties likewise enables the scientific qualifications of the candidate.

• Development and organisation – comprehensive in-house training offers, including the opportunity for continuing education and development;
• Annual leave/educational leave – 30 days annual leave (full-time employment) and 5 days educational leave;
• Sustainable and mobile – eligibility to free public transport in the state of Hesse with the LandesTicket Hessen (Hesse StateTicket) in accordance with the currently valid collective agreement, in addition to opportunities to working mobile at times;
• Fit and healthy – free of charge preventive medical check-ups and a wide-ranging subsidised sports programme;
• Work-life balance – flexible working time models, plus BGM (Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement – University Health Management);
• Pension scheme – supplementary public service pension scheme (VBL) in accordance with the currently applicable regulations;
• University bicycle
• Family-friendliness/compatibility of family/care/career – (university-run) childcare services, child allowance (based on the collective agreement), childcare programmes during school holidays.

TU Darmstadt intends to increase the number of female employees and encourages female candidates to apply. In case of equal qualifications, applicants with a degree of disability of at least 50 or equal will be given preference. Remuneration is in accordance with the collective agreement for the Technical University of Darmstadt (TV - TU Darmstadt). Part-time employment is generally possible.

By submitting your application, you agree that your data may be stored and processed for the purpose of filling the vacancy. You can find our privacy policy on our webpage.

For questions, please contact Prof. Roderich Groß per email: roderich.gross@tu-darmstadt.de.

Applications should contain the following documents: (i) CV, (ii) list of publications; (iii) academic transcripts and certificates; (iv) a letter of motivation explaining what you would bring to and your interest in this position; (v) a 1-page research statement (excluding references) sketching potential research activities and how they relate to our group; (vi) up to three key publications; (vii) contact details for at least two referees from different institutions.