Join Tohoku University’s space robotics team as a Project Researcher and help shape the future of orbital autonomy. This fixed-term role offers hands-on experience in spacecraft control systems, AI robotics, and global collaborations—ideal for PhD holders in robotics, aerospace engineering, or control systems.
Tohoku University, a leading research institution in Japan, has opened applications for a Project Researcher position specializing in space robotics. This opportunity is part of an ambitious initiative focused on orbital robotics and advanced spacecraft control systems. The role is tailored for candidates holding a PhD in robotics, aerospace engineering, or control systems, offering a chance to contribute to international space science efforts.
About the Position
Position Overview
Title: Project Researcher – Space Robotics
Institution: Tohoku University, Japan
Department: Advanced Institute for Space Science and Technology
Type: Fixed-term research position
Field: Orbital robotics, spacecraft control systems
Location: Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan
This position supports research activities in the field of autonomous robotic systems for orbital missions, including tasks such as satellite servicing, orbital inspection, and microgravity operations. The selected researcher will work as part of a globally connected team with access to advanced facilities and academic collaborations.
Research Focus Areas
The role encompasses development and experimentation in space robotics applications including:
On-orbit servicing (OOS) techniques and orbital mechanics
Autonomous spacecraft control and AI-based navigation
Dexterous manipulation in microgravity environments
Sensor fusion and localization algorithms
Fault-tolerant robotic control systems
Candidates with proficiency in robotic kinematics, dynamic modeling, spacecraft attitude control, or computer vision technologies will have a competitive edge.
Target Applicants
This position is suitable for:
Early-stage or recent PhD graduates in relevant technical fields
Postdoctoral researchers specializing in space systems or mechatronics
Researchers with publications in high-impact robotics or aerospace journals
Candidates experienced with development environments such as ROS, MATLAB, Simulink, Python, and C++
International applicants seeking experience within Japan’s academic R&D ecosystem
Application Procedure
Applicants are required to submit their application via the official JREC-IN Portal. The submission must include:
Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing education and research experience
Research statement aligned with the project scope (1–2 pages)
List of publications with citations and DOIs
Names and contact information of two professional referees
Documentation confirming completion or expected completion of a PhD
Visit the portal and search for “Tohoku University Space Robotics” to find the official listing.
JREC-IN Portal Official Link
Timeline
Application Deadline: July 10, 2025
Shortlisting Results: Late July 2025
Interviews (Online or Hybrid): August 2025
Expected Start Date: September to December 2025
About the Host Institution
Established in 1907, Tohoku University is one of Japan’s top-tier research universities, renowned for innovations in materials science, robotics, and disaster resilience. The university’s Advanced Institute for Space Science and Technology actively partners with agencies such as JAXA, NASA, and other global academic institutions to push the boundaries of space research.
Benefits of the Role
Opportunity to contribute to real-world orbital robotics and space missions
Collaboration with national and international aerospace partners
Access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities and simulation environments
Exposure to diverse technical challenges and interdisciplinary research
Living in Sendai, a hub for education, nature, and technology in northern Japan
Eligibility Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in robotics, aerospace engineering, or control systems (completed or expected by start date)
Preferred Qualifications:
Peer-reviewed publications in recognized robotics or aerospace journals (e.g., IEEE, ASME)
Hands-on experience in robotics for space or harsh environments
Strong understanding of orbital dynamics and spacecraft engineering
Programming proficiency in ROS, Python, C++, MATLAB, or Simulink
English proficiency is required for all applicants. Japanese language skills are not mandatory but may be advantageous for integration.
Preparation Resources
To enhance your application:
Review past work from the Tohoku University Space Robotics Lab
Study missions like JAXA’s ETS-VII and Hayabusa for reference
Align your research goals with real-world mission challenges
Utilize open-access datasets from NASA, ESA, and JAXA for contextual understanding
Conclusion
The Project Researcher position at Tohoku University offers a strategic platform for researchers aiming to impact the future of autonomous systems and orbital robotics. This role provides both early-career and experienced researchers with a unique chance to work in a collaborative, world-class environment. Applications must be submitted by July 10, 2025, via the official JREC-IN portal. [Source: https://jrecin.jst.go.jp/]
Key Details
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Project Researcher – Space Robotics |
| Location | Tohoku University, Japan |
| Application Deadline | July 10, 2025 |
| Application Method | Online via JREC-IN Portal |
| Eligibility | PhD in robotics, aerospace engineering, or control systems |
| Start Date | Flexible; ideally by the end of 2025 |
| Contract Type | Full-time, Fixed-term |
| Funding Source | Government and institutional research grants |
FAQs
Applicants must hold a PhD in robotics, aerospace engineering, or control systems to be eligible.
Yes, international candidates with strong research records are highly encouraged to apply.
No, English is sufficient for the role, although Japanese may help in daily interactions.
Candidates should be familiar with ROS, Python, C++, MATLAB, or Simulink environments.
It is a fixed-term research position focused on space robotics and spacecraft control systems at Tohoku University in Japan.
