Associate Scholar​/Scientist​/Engineer, Institute of Simulation and Training

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** The Opportunity
** The Institute of Simulation and Training (IST) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is seeking applicants for a full-time, 12-month non-tenure earning, associate scholar/scientist/engineer position which reports to the director of IST. We are searching for a Research Scientist with expertise in software engineering, visualization, immersive technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and computational science to support the design, development, and integration of next-generation visual simulations and intelligent systems.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team conducting applied research in simulation-based training, modeling, data analytics, and intelligent decision-support systems.

Key Responsibilities
* Design, develop, and implement software architectures, frameworks, and prototypes for high-fidelity visual simulations and AI-enabled environments and applications.
* Apply computational models, data-driven algorithms, and physics-based simulation methods to enhance realism and interactivity in diverse domain systems and applications.
* Work with interdisciplinary teams including engineers, cognitive scientists, and domain experts to define research objectives, design experiments, and analyze results.
* Provide technical guidance on software engineering best practices, simulation technologies, and computational frameworks. Contribute to architecture design, performance optimization, and software verification and validation.
* Create prototypes and capabilities demonstrators to showcase IST’s expertise aligned with trends and opportunities.
* Manage the common labs and provide guidance on equipment and infrastructure acquisition and upgrades.
* Contribute to or lead the preparation of grant proposals and technical reports for federal, state, and industry sponsors.
* Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Present technical results to sponsors, collaborators, and stakeholders. Design and execute hands-on demonstrations and exhibits at strategic events.
*
* Minimum Qualifications:

*** Ph.D. degree from an accredited institution in Computer Science, M&S, Engineering, or a related discipline in modeling and simulation is required at time of application.
*
* Preferred Qualifications:

*** Strong programming skills in one or more of the following: C++, Python, C#, with experience in modern software engineering practices (version control, CI/CD, modular design).
* Experience with distributed systems, GPU computing, or cloud-based simulation environments.
* Knowledge of human-in-the-loop simulation, training effectiveness evaluation, or synthetic environments.
* Experience in government or defense research environments.
* Record of successful proposal writing and sponsored research funding.
* Demonstrated experience in software development for simulation systems, high-performance computing, or AI-based applications.
* Familiarity with simulation frameworks (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine, Paraview, Fluent, or similar visual simulation engines).
* Experience with AI/ML tools and frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, Tensor Flow, scikit-learn).
* Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary research teams and communicate complex concepts clearly.
** Additional Application Materials

Required:

** UCF requires all applications and supporting documents be submitted electronically through the Human Resources employment opportunities website, https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). In addition to the online application, interested candidates should upload the following:
* A curriculum vitae.
* A letter of interest describing qualifications for the position, such as research agenda and teaching experience/interest.
** NOTE**:
Please have all documents ready when applying so they can be attached at that time. Once the online submission process is finalized, the system does not allow applicants to submit additional documents later.

The selected candidate will be required to submit official transcripts (and, as applicable, U.S. degree equivalency evaluations) documenting the conferral of their qualifying academic credentials.

Questions regarding this search should be directed to:
Nayade Ramirez, Search Manager irez.
** Special Instructions to the Applicants:
** Sponsorship for employment-based visas will only be considered under exceptional circumstances and is not guaranteed. Preference will be given to candidates who are currently authorized to work for any employer in the United States.

This position is funded with E&G funds.
** Job Close Date:
** Open until filled.

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