[robotics-worldwide] postdocs and Ph.D. students at McGill University on Natural Interactive Walking project

[Jeremy Cooperstock]

The Shared Reality Lab at McGill University's Centre for Intelligent
Machines is seeking highly capable and motivated Ph.D. and
postdoctoral researchers to join our Natural Interactive Walking (NIW)
project, described at http://www.cim.mcgill.ca/sre/projects/niw

Our objectives are to refine the evolving platform for use in a
rehabilitation training program, related to improving the skill of
pedestrians, in particular those with physical or sensorimotor
impairments, to prevent falls on various surfaces.  This work will be
conducted in collaboration with researchers at other institutions,
both in Montreal and outside.  The focus will be on the development of
a multimodal variable-friction floor platform, combining vibrotactile
haptic, auditory, and visual displays, for studying issues related to
slips and falls

Positions include:

1. Computational integration of various sensor data and application of
machine learning techniques to analyze user walking gestures.

2. Design and implementation of the variable-friction floor platform,
integrated with vibrotactile rendering and passive kinesthetic
display.

3. Development of improved rendering algorithms and control logic for a
hybrid kinesthetic and vibrotactile haptic display device. This may
require closed-loop control for compliance and friction rendering,
designed according to specifications related to the accuracy of human
perception.

4. Design and conduct experiments on a combination of real-world
materials and simulations: the intent of this research is help develop
the underlying biomechanical theories related to balance failures and
slips.

Candidates must possess a minimum of a Master's degree (or equivalent)
in electrical or mechanical engineering, or computer science, with an
emphasis on robotics, psychophysics, or human computer interaction, as
relevant for the specific position, have excellent programming and
mathematical skills, and a positive attitude toward interdisciplinary
research and teamwork.

To apply, please send your CV, a list of academic references, pointers
to three of your most relevant publications in the area, and a brief
statement of interest to <niw-jobs at cim.mcgill.ca>.  Also, include in
the email a time at which you will become available. 

Promising Ph.D. applicants will be encouraged to submit their
application materials to McGill University's graduate admissions for
the upcoming January admission deadline.  Post-doctoral applicants
with strong profiles will be contacted for interviews.  Several
positions are available to be filled immediately.

-- 
Jeremy R. Cooperstock 		| Tel: +1-514-398-5992
http://www.cim.mcgill.ca/~jer	| Fax: +1-514-398-7348

Associate Professor
Centre for Intelligent Machines and
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
McGill University
3480 University Street, Room 424
Montreal, QC, H3A 2A7, Canada