Senior Staff/ Principal Research Scientist – Dexterous Manipulation

The role

This role focuses on dexterous manipulation for humanoid robot hands. The work covers manipulation algorithms, simulation environments, and reinforcement learning research to solve robotic manipulation tasks.

What you will do

• Design, implement, and deploy manipulation algorithms for humanoid robot dexterous hands, including teleoperation, force control, and reinforcement learning
• Develop and maintain high-fidelity simulation environments for robot kinematics, dynamics, sensor emulation, and physical interaction
• Research and innovate on state-of-the-art reinforcement learning algorithms for complex robotic manipulation tasks
• Diagnose and tackle core technical challenges that arise during specific robot task execution

Required qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Robotics, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field
• Strong foundation in robot dynamics, kinematics, and optimal control, with excellent mathematical skills
• Proficiency in Linux, Docker, C++, and Python
• Experience with git and a commitment to writing clean, maintainable code
• A collaborative mindset, intellectual curiosity, and humility in a fast-paced team environment
• Demonstrated ability to independently research and master new algorithms and technologies

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience with mainstream reinforcement learning or imitation learning frameworks
• Proven ability to build complex simulations using Isaac Gym/Isaac Lab or similar platforms
• Experience with tactile sensing and its integration in dexterous manipulation
• Practical experience in sim2real transfer for robotics
• Experience in controlling multi-joint robotic systems
• Publications in top-tier robotics or AI conferences or journals

Benefits

• A fun, supportive and engaging environment
• Opportunity to make significant impact on the transportation revolution by advancing autonomous driving
• Opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies with top talent in the field
• Competitive compensation package
• Snacks, lunches and fun activities

Before you apply

• Equal Opportunity Employer: equal employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or marital s

About the company

XPENG is a smart technology company integrating AI and autonomous driving into electric vehicles, eVTOL aircraft, and robotics. The company focuses on intelligent mobility and R&D in AI, machine learning, and smart connectivity.