Applied Robotics Research Scientist

We are seeking a highly motivated Applied Robotics Research Scientist to push the boundaries of intelligent robotic systems through cutting-edge research and hands-on implementation. In this role, you will drive the integration of large language models (LLMs), vision-language models (VLMs), generative AI, and reinforcement learning into modern robotic platforms. You will collaborate with a world-class team of engineers and researchers to bring new levels of autonomy and intelligence to real-world robot systems.

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This is a Full-Time onsite opportunity and our office is based in San Mateo.

Responsibilities
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• ROS Optimization for LLM/VLM Integration
  Design and implement optimized Robot Operating System (ROS) frameworks to enable real-time communication and coordination with state-of-the-art LLMs and VLMs.
   

• Task-Level Reasoning with Open Source LLMs
  Train, fine-tune, and deploy open-source large language models for autonomous task decomposition and high-level instruction execution.
   

• Physics-Based Simulation Development
  Create and maintain scalable 3D simulation environments (e.g., Isaac Sim, MuJoCo) for training and evaluating robot behaviors in diverse scenarios.
   

• On-Device Reinforcement Learning
  Research and implement reinforcement learning algorithms tailored for edge devices with limited compute, enabling continual learning in dynamic environments.
   

• Gen AI for Navigation and Manipulation
  Develop novel approaches using generative AI to enhance robotic capabilities in complex navigation and dexterous manipulation tasks.
   

• Sensor Fusion Algorithm Development
  Design advanced sensor fusion techniques combining data from vision, LiDAR, IMU, and other modalities to improve perception and situational awareness.
   

• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  Work closely with research scientists, software engineers, and hardware teams to design, prototype, and evaluate robotic systems.
   

• Research Communication
  Document technical findings clearly and present insights in internal reviews and, where appropriate, at top-tier academic conferences or industry workshops.
   

• Technology Scouting
  Stay informed on the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and machine learning to identify new opportunities for innovation.

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Qualifications
 

Required:

• PhD or MS in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field with research experience in AI for robotics.

• Proficiency in ROS 2, Python, and C++/Rust.

• Strong understanding of machine learning, especially reinforcement learning and large language/vision models.

• Experience with 3D simulation tools such as Isaac Sim, MuJoCo, or Gazebo.

• Solid background in control systems, kinematics, and sensor integration.

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Preferred:

• Publications in leading AI/robotics conferences (e.g., ICRA, RSS, NeurIPS, CVPR).

• Experience with model fine-tuning and inference on resource-constrained devices.

• Familiarity with NVIDIA Jetson platforms, GPU optimization, and deployment pipelines.

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Benefits
 

• Competitive compensation, Series B equity

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Unlimited vacation

• Opportunity to collaborate with world-renowned surgeons to help shape the future of surgery

Location

San Mateo

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Contact

To apply for this position, send your resume to jobs@kaliberlabs.com

About Kaliber Labs

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We’re on a mission to reimagine the boundaries of care and we’re just getting started.
Kaliber is where robotics, real-time intelligence, and human-centered design converge to create a safer, smarter, and more connected future in healthcare.

Kaliber Labs is an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.