The Remanufacturing Process Technology (RPT) Group is seeking a skilled Research Engineer/Scientist to develop advanced process monitoring and control capabilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sensor integration, data fusion, and AI-driven process optimization. The candidate's responsibilities include engineering design, process monitoring & control, quality evaluation, and data processing with AI. There will be opportunities to learn and improve these skills with the team through involvement in industry and competitively funded projects related to joining and metal deposition processes. This includes the following areas:

• Develop customized CAD/CAM modules and post-processors for advanced toolpath planning in machining and directed energy deposition process (DED) processes.
• Develop and implement in-situ monitoring using various sensors (e.g. CCD cameras, infrared cameras, pyrometers, acoustic emission microphones, etc) to detect anomalies during process.
• Implement robust real-time data acquisition systems to collect and stream sensor data. Ensure synchronized communication between the sensors, data processing units (CNC/robot controllers, computers).
• Develop algorithms to fuse data from multiple sensors (visual, thermal, acoustic) with machine parameters (real-time laser power, CNC/robot speed and position, etc.) to identify patterns, correlate sensor signals with build quality, and inform process control decisions.
• Apply machine learning and AI techniques to analyse in-process sensor data for defect detection and quality prediction
• Plan and execute experiments on the DED machine to validate sensor setups and control algorithms.

Detailed Job requirements:

• Bachelor/Master/PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related field
• At least 2 years of relevant experience in an R&D or engineering role (e.g. process control development, automation, or additive manufacturing). Hands-on experience with developing sensor systems or control systems in a laboratory or industrial environment is highly valued
• Strong programming skills in Python, MATLAB, and C/C++. Experience writing algorithm for data analysis, machine communication, and real-time control loops. Familiarity with data processing libraries, machine learning frameworks, or real-time computing environments is a plus
• Familiarity with PLCs and industrial control systems. Ability to program or script PLCs or use CNC/robot controller APIs to interface external sensors and actuators. Understanding of G-code, motion planning, or robot kinematics for coordinating with CNC/robotic systems
• Experience in hardware integration and sensor data acquisition. For example, experience connecting cameras or sensors to data acquisition devices, using protocols (Ethernet, serial, fieldbus, etc.)
• Excellent problem-solving ability and analytical mindset. Capable of digging into complex, multi-domain data (images, thermal profiles, acoustic signals, etc.) to diagnose issues
• Proficiency and experience in Linux and ROS-Industrial is desirable/good to have

Key soft skills required:

• Good communication skills for reporting findings and collaborating with colleagues
• Ability to think critically and problem-solving oriented
• Ability to work effectively and independently
• Ability to communicate and interact with team and industry professionally
• Ability to learn and adapt new technologies to stay relevant