A research associate position is available to investigate insect-inspired grasping mechanisms on the EPSRC funded project GRASP, under the direction of Professor Barbara Webb, in the School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh. The position is available from September 1, 2021, for 5 years. The primary role of the candidate will be to undertake biological experiments, behavioural analysis and modelling aimed at establishing how ants solve the 'grasp of unknown object in clutter' problem. This will include the development of new tracking and behavioural analysis methods, and the development and implementation of functional hypotheses as computational models of the antʼs behaviour. In collaboration with a second research associate, the key principles will be replicated on a mobile robot platform capable of both navigation and manipulation under natural conditions. Candidates are expected to have a PhD (or be near completion) in experimental or computational biology or neuroscience, including substantial experience in computational methods for behavioural analysis and modelling. A track record of good journal publications in this area should be demonstrated. The candidate is also expected to have good programming and system engineering skills, and ideally, practical skills in the design and utilisation of novel experimental methods. Candidates with direct experience and knowledge of insect research will be preferred. For informal enquiries please contact Professor Barbara Webb (B.Webb@ed.ac.uk) Full details and applications (deadline June 10) via: https://elxw.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_10... The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. Is e buidheann carthannais a th’ ann an Oilthigh Dhùn Èideann, clàraichte an Alba, àireamh clàraidh SC005336.