About CAIRSS
The newly established Centre for AI Robotics in Space Sustainability (CAIRSS) at HKUST pioneers interdisciplinary research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable space exploration. Led by Professor Yang Gao, a world-renowned space roboticist with 20+ years of experience in real-world international space missions, CAIRSS tackles humanity’s most pressing space sustainability challenges, including orbital debris mitigation, autonomous space systems, and in-situ resource utilization for both crewed and uncrewed missions.

Open Positions
We seek three post-doctoral researchers with expertise in:

• AI for Space Robotics: machine learning for spacecraft autonomy (e.g., perception, navigation and decision making); trustworthy AI for extreme environments.
• Robotic Systems for Space Sustainability: bio-inspired mechanisms for planetary robots; AI embediments and energy-efficient mobility.
• Active debris removal (ADR) technologies: in-orbit robotic grasping and manipulation; software/hardware system integration; noval ADR testbeds.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research aligned with CAIRSS’s vision.
• Publish in top-tier journals and conferences in robotics and space.
• Collaborate with academic, industry and commercial partners.
• Assist in supervising research students and contribute to grant applications.

Requirements

• PhD in Robotics, AI, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields.
• Strong publication record in AI, robotics, or space engineering.
• Technical skills: Proficiency in Python/C++, Robot Operating System (ROS), and AI/ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow); Hands-on experience with robotic hardware (e.g., robotic arms, mobile platforms); Familiarity with space environment simulations (Unity/Unreal/STK) is a plus.
• Passion for space sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration.

We Offer

• Competitive salary (commensurate with qualifications and experience) with fringe benefits (annual leave, medical and dental coverage).
• Initial 1-year, renewable annually (up to 5 years).
• Access to a global research network and partnerships with leading space players.
• Opportunity to co-develop state-of-the-art space robotic testbeds.
• Career development in a niche research field with pathways to long-term academic or industry leadership.
• CAIRSS is also recruiting a cohort of PhD students with fully funded scholarship. Please contact yanggao@ust.hk to discuss it if interested.

(Duration: 1 year, renewable)

How to Apply
Submit the following at the online application portal (https://hkustcareers.ust.hk)

• CV (including publications and research statements)
• 2–3 representative papers
• Contact details of 3 referees (or 3 reference letters)

Applicants will receive an acknowledgement by email upon successful submission. We thank applicants for their interest, but advise that only shortlisted candidates will be notified of the result of the application.

(Information provided by applicants will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes. Applicants should read the Personal Information Collection Statement before submission of application.)

HKUST is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to our core values of
inclusiveness, diversity, and respect.