Research Engineer BS4979

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Engineer to support cutting-edge research in agricultural robotics and automation for precision planting, fertilization, and other field production operations.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Research and Development (80%)
  • Design, develop, integrate, and operate robotic and automated systems for precision agricultural applications.
  • Design, instrument, and maintain laboratory and field research equipment, including 3D printers, embedded systems, microcontrollers, microcomputers, GPS/GNSS receivers, machine vision systems, sensors, wireless communication networks, and data acquisition systems.
  • Plan, organize, and conduct laboratory and field experiments related to agricultural robotics, automation, sensing and controls, and precision crop production.
  • Develop software and hardware solutions for robotic control, sensing, data collection, and autonomous operation.
  • Analyze experimental data using statistical, machine learning, and artificial intelligence methods to evaluate system performance and generate actionable insights.
  • Prepare technical reports, project deliverables, journal manuscripts, conference papers, and presentations.
  • Present research findings at professional conferences, stakeholder meetings, and technical workshops.
  • Develop training materials and conduct demonstrations for project sponsors and industry stakeholders.
  • Assist faculty investigators in the preparation of competitive grant proposals and research project development.
• Research Support and Laboratory Management (20%)
  • Support research activities under the supervision of faculty investigators, including literature reviews, technology evaluations, and implementation of engineering designs.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, computing resources, software systems, and research infrastructure.
  • Monitor laboratory and field research facilities to ensure efficient operation and data quality.
  • Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students participating in research projects.
  • Ensure compliance with university policies, research protocols, safety requirements, and quality assurance standards.
  • Cookordinate laboratory and field activities to support timely completion of project objectives.
  • Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)
• Minimum of two (2) years of professional, research, or graduate-level experience in the design, development, and implementation of smart sensing, instrumentation, automation, or control systems for agricultural, biological, environmental, or related engineering applications,
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in prototype development and system integration, including the use of 3D printing, electronic instrumentation, embedded systems, sensors, and machine shop tools and equipment,
• Experience in CAD-based mechanical design using SolidWorks or equivalent tools, including system-level prototype design,
• Experience planning, organizing, and conducting laboratory and field experiments, including data collection, system evaluation, troubleshooting, and documentation of research results,
• Demonstrated experience in data analysis, interpretation of experimental results, and preparation of technical reports, presentations, or scholarly publications.

Skills, Proficiencies, And/or Knowledge

• Demonstrated proficiency in the design, development, integration, and troubleshooting of microcontroller-based sensing, instrumentation, automation, and control systems,
• Proficiency in rapid prototyping and fabrication, including 3D printing, CAD design, and operation of machine shop tools and equipment,
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including experience applying statistical methods, multivariate analysis, and machine learning techniques to research data,
• Proficiency in programming using Python and MATLAB for data analysis, automation, modeling, and system development,
• Knowledge of machine vision, robotics, autonomous systems, GPS/GNSS technologies, and precision agriculture applications is highly desirable,
• Ability to design, conduct, and document laboratory and field experiments,
• Ability to load/unload heavy equipment and haul a trailer to a long distance,
• Ability to operate machines to fabricate mechanical parts and prototyping materials,
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical/electrical problems in field,
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare technical reports, scientific publications, presentations, and training materials,
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary research teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field
• Experience on designing and integrating robotic, autonomous, or mechatronic systems for agricultural applications,
• Experience on developing software for embedded systems, robotics, machine vision, data acquisition, or autonomous control using Python, C/C++, MATLAB, ROS/ROS2, or similar platforms,
• Experience on applying machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer vision, or sensor fusion techniques to agricultural applications,
• Experience on managing or contributing to externally funded research projects, including project planning, progress reporting, and coordination of research activities,
• Experience on publishing peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, and technical reports,
• Experience on presenting technical information to diverse audiences,
• Experience mentoring, supervising, or training undergraduate students, graduate students, or technical personnel in laboratory and field research activities,
• Experience conducting agricultural field experiments involving crop production, agricultural machinery, precision agriculture technologies, or automated farming systems,
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and contribute effectively within multidisciplinary research teams.

Skills, Proficiencies, And/or Knowledge

• Advanced proficiency in robotics, mechatronics, or autonomous systems design with applications in agriculture or related field environments,
• Strong experience in embedded systems development, including sensor integration, real-time control, and edge computing for smart sensing applications,
• Proficiency with robotics and autonomy software frameworks (e.g., ROS/ROS2) and hardware-software co-design for robotic systems,
• Experience with computer vision, machine learning, and AI-based perception systems for field or agricultural applications,
• Knowledge of precision agriculture technologies, including GNSS/RTK systems, variable-rate application, and site-specific crop management,
• Additional experience in C/C++/Java is highly desirable,
• Experience on operating agricultural equipment,
• Ability to drive long distance to conduct field and lab experiments.