The Neural Rehabilitation Group (NRG) at Cajal Institute (CSIC) offers a unique opportunity to work on the translation of leading neuroscientific brain theories into human-centred robotics applications. We are seeking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to conduct research on Brain-inspired learning and control of exoskeletons, and 1 or 2 master students interested in a master thesis in a related topic.
Description:
Wearable robotics (WR), like exoskeletons, are one of the breakthrough technologies that may revolutionize our quality of life. However, despite the huge investment in WR and the progress in sensing (wearables), the algorithms to produce the behaviour (action) are still very challenging. Current biomechatronic control methods are heterogeneous and usually hand-crafted. This prevents smooth interaction with the user and generates cognitive overloading or undesired movements/behaviour. Surprisingly, these solutions are far from being in line with current i) evidence in sensorimotor neuroscience and ii) breakthroughs in artificial intelligence.
Candidates’ work will focus on improving human-exoskeleton interactions by researching and deploying state-of-the-art brain-inspired artificial intelligence (e.g., reinforcement learning, active inference) as the perception and control algorithm of different robotic exoskeleton systems.
Prerequisites & contact:
Candidates should hold, or be in the process of obtaining, a master’s degree in one of the following areas:
• Informatics
• Robotics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Control
• Mechatronics
Interested candidates should send an email including CV and motivation letter to Pablo Lanillos and David Rodriguez before 30th July.