Temporary Graduate Research Assistant

Job Title

Temporary Graduate Research Assistant

Worcester

Fire Protection Engineering - JM

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

We are seeking a highly motivated graduate student to join our research team in the Fire Protection Engineering Department  position is focused on developing a probabilistic framework for fire risk assessment using fire spread models in Fire Bench. The role requires a strong background in probabilistic modeling, data analysis, Python programming, and machine learning.

• Develop a probabilistic framework for fire risk assessment.
• Utilize Fire Bench and fire spread models to analyze fire scenarios.
• Implement Monte Carlo simulations and Bayesian network approaches.
• Perform geospatial data analysis using NOAA weather data, LANDFIRE fuel maps, GIS tools.
• Apply machine learning techniques for wildfire risk modeling and pattern recognition.
• Collaborate with research team members and work independently on data processing and simulation pipelines.

• Probabilistic modeling:
  Monte Carlo simulation, Bayesian networks, or uncertainty quantification.
• Python programming with Num Py, pandas, Sci Py, etc.
• Machine learning frameworks such as scikit‑learn, Tensor Flow, or PyTorch.
• Geospatial data analysis and handling large geospatial datasets.
• Familiarity with fire behavior modeling tools (Fire Bench, FARSITE, or WRF‑SFIRE) is a plus.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively.

• Ability to learn quickly.
• Accuracy, accurate listening, analytical thinking.
• Collaboration, communication, data analysis, probabilistic reasoning.
• Open minded, time management, verbal communication.

• Current master’s candidate in Computer Science, Data Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

Hourly rate: $21.00 (based on experience).

FLSA status:
United States of America (Non‑Exempt).

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. WPI seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. WPI is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.