Turning neuroscience and AI into the next generation of cognitive machines – together. At ZEISS, we focus on user-centric innovation to transform bold ideas into real-world technologies. At the ZEISS Innovation Hub @ KIT, we foster collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, and engineers to drive impactful breakthroughs. Our Neurotechnology & Cognitive Robotics team explores the intersection of neuroscience, AI, and robotics to develop intelligent systems inspired by cognitive and neural mechanisms - integrating insights like attention, perception, and decision-making into robotic architectures. We develop technologies that decode, support, and extend human neural function – while leveraging insights from neuroscience to build the next generation of adaptive, intelligent machines. This position is ideal for an exceptional mind who seeks to merge computational neuroscience, cognitive robotics, and AI in real-world, high-impact medical and human-centered applications.
Your RoleGuide the development of neuro-inspired architectures for adaptive robotic systems
Design learning-enabled control and perception pipelines for complex environments
Apply neuroscience to develop intelligent, embodied systems that exhibit robust adaptation.
Integrate multimodal data, e.g., EEG, MEG, fNIRS, SEEG, and MRI, into cognitive control loops
Produce noteworthy publications, patents, and demonstrators
Work together with teams in medical robotics, AI, and neurotechnology
Mentor students and junior researchers in a collaborative and challenging environment
PhD in Cognitive Robotics, Computational Neuroscience, AI, or related field
Strong publication record in peer-reviewed international journals/conferences
Deep knowledge in at least one of the following: Neuro-inspired AI and learning systems or Cognitive architectures and adaptive robotics or Multimodal signal processing and neurodecoding
Programming experience in Python and/or C++, ROS Experience with robotic platforms or intelligent systems in real-world contexts
Ideally: exposure to neurotechnology or neural data (e.g. EEG, MEG, sEEG, fNIRS, MRI)
In addition, you bring
A self-driven, pragmatic, and solution-oriented mindset
Solid analytical and organizational competencies
Commitment to push limits and establish a lasting legacy in neuro-AI and robotics
Highly effective English communication
A collaborative spirit and passion for interdisciplinary innovation
A visionary, interdisciplinary team working at the frontier of neuroscience, AI, and robotics
Ownership of cutting-edge topics in cognitive robotics and neuro-AI
A translational environment to turn ideas into impactful applications for healthcare and surgery
Direct collaboration with experts in neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, and AI
A fast-moving innovation hub with academic rigor and industrial relevance
Support for publications, patents, and prototypes in an agile, collaborative culture
We look forward to receiving your application, including references and a list of publications, if applicable.
Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:
Friederike Kirklar-HarmsTop Skills
What We Do
ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the fields of optics and optoelectronics. In the previous fiscal year, the ZEISS Group generated annual revenue totaling 10 billion euros in its four segments Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology and Consumer Markets (status: 30 September 2023).
With around 43,000 employees, ZEISS is active globally in almost 50 countries with around 30 production sites, 60 sales and service companies and 27 research and development facilities (status: 30 September 2023). Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany. The Carl Zeiss Foundation, one of the largest foundations in Germany committed to the promotion of science, is the sole owner of the holding company, Carl Zeiss AG.
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