Research Associate, Research Scientist, Robotics

Position Summary

A research associate will investigate and develop autonomous systems, such as unmanned surface vessels. Design and develop sensors (camera, Lidar, radar, and INS), guidance, navigation, and control systems onboard unmanned surface vessels (USVs). Implement guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for autonomous vehicle operation in the littoral environment. Maintain and operate the USVs to acquire measurements required to meet research goals. Analyze data using MATLAB or other programming languages, document technical results, and present findings in project meetings and conferences.

Assist in proposal preparation, journal article preparation, and supervise undergraduate and graduate students.

• Design and develop autonomous systems for unmanned surface vessels, including perception systems (camera, Lidar, radar, INS) and guidance, navigation, and control systems implemented with ROS, Python, MATLAB, or C++ (40% of time).
• Process and analyze collected data and sensor readings from littoral environments using MATLAB or other languages; develop computer vision or related methods for situational awareness and autonomous navigation (30% of time).
• Create technical documentation, contribute to monthly reports, prepare slides, videos, and demos for quarterly reviews, and present outcomes in meetings and conferences (20% of time).
• Oversee students using sensor system and simulation; guide troubleshooting, and assist in instructing deployment and data acquisition (10% of time).

• Master’s degree in an area of research specialty.

• Ph.D. in Engineering, Physical Sciences, or related field.
• OR a Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field with more than 3 years of experience.

• MATLAB and Python programming.
• C++, hardware, and software experience in developing autonomous systems.

Health and life insurance, paid leave, and retirement programs may be provided through the State of South Carolina and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA). Eligibility for benefits may vary based on grant or project funding.

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.

• Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)
• List of at least 3 contacts/references