Research Assistant - Medical Robotics Simulation Environment; Neuro Robotics Group

Research Assistant - Medical Robotics Simulation Environment (50%)

Neuro Robotics Group at the ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research

Project Background This project addresses technology translation challenges by developing a digital, interactive platform for early‑stage prototyping of telemanipulated robotic systems. It enables researchers and clinicians to jointly explore and evaluate robot concepts using a virtual environment before physical components are manufactured. This approach reduces development costs, supports rapid iteration, and facilitates effective interdisciplinary exchange.

• Design, implement, and maintain a ROS2‑based simulation environment for robotic designs in a medical context
• Integrate and evaluate various software packages and frameworks relevant to (medical) robotics
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to model and simulate clinical use cases
• Support data collection, visualization, and analysis from simulation runs
• Document code, workflows, and results to ensure reproducibility and scalability of the research

• Pursuing a master’s degree in robotics, computer science, or related discipline
• Strong programming skills in Python and C++, preferably with experience in ROS2
• Experience with software integration, version control (Git), and Linux‑based systems
• Prior experience with simulation environments such as Gazebo, Ignition, SOFA, Coppelia Sim is highly advantageous
• Basic understanding of robotic kinematics, control, and sensor integration
• Interest in medical robotics applications or human–robot interaction is a plus
• Good communication skills and ability to work independently as well as in a multidisciplinary team

• Dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at the intersection of robotics, medicine, and simulation technology
• Opportunities to work with cutting‑edge robotic systems and state‑of‑the‑art simulation frameworks
• Opportunity to align the position with a master thesis or semester project

ARTORG Center for Biomedical Research, University of Bern

Department of Neurosurgery, Inselspital Bern

Start date: February 2026

Workplace: ARTORG Center (Murtenstrasse 50) on the Insel Spital Campus

Application: Send motivation letter, CV, diplomas, and course transcripts to thomas.bucher.