Post Doctoral Research Associate in 3D Reconstruction and Modelling

We are looking to recruit a Post Doctoral Research Associate with a research profile in 3D reconstruction and digital twin modelling to join our agri-robotics research team. 

The University of Lincoln robotics team is working on a large project within the tomato breeding industry, aiming for the development of digital twins for optimising tomato production. The twin will feature realistic simulation of the glasshouse, tomato plants, environmental factors and automation systems enabling optimisation of large-scale automated glasshouse designs, and the possibility to evaluate future deployment of robotic solutions in horticulture. The tool will be validated in the research farm at our Riseholme campus and tested with the new varieties of automation-friendly tomato varieties.  

The key academic focus will be on automated asset and layout creation from 3D reconstruction techniques, structural-functional plant models and environmental modelling. For that purpose, we are looking to recruit a Post Doctoral Research Associate with relevant experience and/or a keen interest in a number of research areas, including (not exclusively): 

Applicants should have or expect to soon obtain, a PhD in a relevant area. You must have excellent mathematical and coding skills (C++/Python, ROS).   

This opportunity allows you to engage in international collaboration within an ambitious team, to work with state-of-the-art robotic hardware and software, and to benefit from excellent support to produce and disseminate original research contributions in the leading international conferences and journals. You will have access to state-of-the-art research farms equipped with industrial-standard production facilities, as well as agricultural robots with advanced sensors and tools.  

You will also contribute to the University's ambition to achieve international recognition as a research-intensive institution and will be expected to design, conduct and manage original research in the above subject areas as well as contribute to the wider activities of the agri-robotics team. Evidence of authorship of research outputs of international standing is essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, including excellent written and spoken communication skills. Opportunities to mentor and co-supervise PhD students working in the project team will also be available to outstanding candidates. 

For more information about this exciting opportunity, please contact Prof. Grzegorz Cielniak at [email protected]. 

Closing Date: 20 Jan 2026

Department: Research

Salary: £38,784 per annum Please note, this post is fixed term until 31 December 2028, and full time at 1 FTE.