Manoj Kumar Eedhara

Robotics Software Engineer, Autonome Labs

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day.

I currently work as a Robotics Software Engineer, developing autonomous navigation and perception systems for UAV platforms. My work involves designing software architectures using ROS2 and PX4, implementing Visual SLAM, multi-sensor fusion, and obstacle avoidance algorithms, and deploying these systems in real-world environments, including GPS-denied scenarios. On a typical day, I develop and optimise perception and navigation algorithms, work on embedded firmware and sensor drivers, run simulations and real-world testing, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. I also work on deploying AI models and SLAM pipelines on edge devices such as Jetson and Qualcomm platforms.

What were the best things about your course?

The best aspects of my course were the strong combination of theoretical robotics concepts and practical implementation. Modules such as Intelligent Robotics, Computer Vision and Machine Learning helped me build the foundation needed for perception and autonomous systems development. The research-focused dissertation also helped me develop independent problem-solving and research skills.

How do you feel your degree helped you get a job after graduation?

My degree helped me build strong fundamentals in robotics, AI, and computer vision, which directly aligned with industry roles. The course projects and dissertation allowed me to demonstrate practical experience in robotics algorithms and simulation, which was very valuable during job interviews and technical assessments.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

The most used skills are robotics, SLAM and perception algorithms, machine learning, and systems integration. I also frequently use ROS2, computer vision, sensor fusion and real-time systems optimisation in my current role.

What are your top tips for securing a job in the United Kingdom or your home country?

• Build strong practical project experience, especially in real-world robotics or AI systems
• Learn industry tools like ROS2, computer vision frameworks and embedded systems
• Create a strong GitHub portfolio demonstrating real deployments
• Practice technical interviews and system design discussions
• Stay updated with emerging technologies such as edge AI and autonomous systems

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham? Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree?

Since graduating, I have worked across robotics, computer vision and AI roles, gaining industry experience in autonomous robotics, sports analytics and LLM-based AI systems. I continuously improve my skills through certifications, online learning and hands-on development, as robotics and AI are rapidly evolving fields that require constant learning.

What advice would you give to current and prospective students looking to work in your sector?

Focus on fundamentals such as control systems, robotics algorithms, and computer vision. Build projects involving real robots, drones or simulations, and learn how to deploy models efficiently on real hardware. Robotics is highly multidisciplinary, so understanding software, hardware and AI together is very valuable.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme?

Make the most of practical labs, group projects and research opportunities. Try to go beyond coursework by building robotics or AI projects independently, as these demonstrate real capability to employers.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?

Students should contribute to open-source projects, participate in hackathons, build personal robotics or AI projects, and complete internships where possible. Building a strong technical portfolio is extremely important in engineering and robotics careers.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University, for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so, what impact did they have on you?

Yes, careers services helped with CV preparation, interview preparation and understanding the UK job market, which helped improve my confidence and application success.

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham?

My fondest memories include working on robotics projects, collaborating with classmates from diverse backgrounds and working on research problems. I would recommend Birmingham to anyone looking for strong academic teaching combined with practical engineering exposure.

What were your favourite things about Birmingham the city? How did it compare to your expectations?

I enjoyed the multicultural environment, food diversity and strong student community. It exceeded my expectations in terms of student life and opportunities.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student?

I spent a lot of time working on robotics projects, technical learning and research-focused development work, which helped strengthen my practical engineering skills.

Please tell us about your experience studying and living away from home.

Living away from home helped me become more independent, improve time management skills and adapt to multicultural environments, which helped both personally and professionally.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I applied because of the strong research background and it is a Russell Group university, the course structure covering advanced robotics and machine learning, and the research opportunities available