Research Associate in Mechanical Engineering – Monitoring and Computer Vision

Position: Research Associate in Mechanical Engineering – Condition Monitoring and Computer Vision

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Research Associate in Mechanical Engineering – Condition Monitoring and Computer Vision

Job no: 529241

Position type: Staff Full Time

Benefit Status: Benefited-Union

Campus: UMass Lowell

Department: Mechanical & Industrial Engin

Salary: Anticipate salary up to $70,000 commensurate with grade/range

Applications Open: Dec 18 2025

Applications Close: Open until filled

General Summary of Position

The successful "Research Associate in Mechanical Engineering - Condition Monitoring and Computer Vision" will conduct analytical and experimental research in the areas of Nondestructive evaluation and Condition Monitoring with an emphasis on the development of computer vision and machine learning-enhanced techniques for damage detection, data acquisition, and system monitoring for energy systems (e.g., wind, solar, hydrogen). The successful candidate will also assist in writing scholarly articles and research proposals, help to manage and educate graduate or undergraduate students, and assist in the successful operation of the laboratories and facilities.

The initial appointment will be for 1 year with the possibility of renewal based on productivity and performance and the availability of funding.

Essential

Job Duties

1. Conduct analytical and experimental research under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI). This specifically involves:

• Acquire data of targeted structures using unmanned aerial vehicles embedding different sensors such as RGB, RGB_D, and infrared cameras, LiDAR scanners, etc.
• Develop appropriate image processing algorithms and approaches to analyze the collected datasets.
• Conduct research related to differing environmental conditions and operations of the installed energy storage and power generation system.
• Develop a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system for monitoring and control of energy systems.
• Develop appropriate machine learning algorithms and models to automate the detection of damage in the collected datasets.
• Ensuring all project-related activities are conducted on time and to the highest standard.
• Prepare status reports and deliverables in collaboration with and under the direction of the PI.
• Serve as a liaison between PI and collaborating research partners.

2. Assist supervisor in writing scholarly articles and proposals for grant funding.

• The successful candidate will be expected to publish at least two articles per year in peer-reviewed scientific journals based on the research conducted. Papers and presentations in scientific conferences will also be required. Development of patentable technologies over the course of the project will also be encouraged.
• The successful candidate will be expected to initiate and assist in the formulation and writing of externally funded research proposals. This effort will include finding appropriate opportunities, finding collaborative partners, generating preliminary data, and proposal writing/submission.
• Assist in preparing programmatic reports and making presentations to the sponsor/funding agencies.

3. Attend Meetings related to the research projects.

• Conduct weekly meetings between PI, Co-PI, and other group members (e.g., other Post-docs, graduate students, undergraduate students).
• Disseminate knowledge by attending technical meetings and conferences nationally and internationally when required.

4. Supervise Undergraduate and Graduate Students

• Meet weekly with each student to review their research project, progress, and papers and to develop a path forward.
• Provide mentorship or training to graduate and undergraduate students involved in the project.

Other

Job Duties

• Promote the University’s commitment to customer service.
• Build effective partnerships with co-workers throughout the University.
• Ensure optimum service to all internal and external partners in response to all requests for service and information.
• Maintain an environment that is welcoming to persons of all backgrounds, nationalities, and roles.
• Help with the…