Senior Autonomy Systems Research Scientist

Position Summary

The AI for Autonomy Lab within the SEI’s AI Division is recruiting a Senior Autonomous Systems Research Scientist to address complex problems in real-world, mission-critical environments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in applied machine learning and robotics, with experience in solution development, collaboration, and mentoring.

Duties

• Hands-on Research: Lead novel research in applied machine learning and robotics.
• Solution Development: Lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Actively participate with researchers, developers, engineers, designers, technical leads, campus labs, and our government customers to understand challenges, needs, and potential solutions.
• Mentoring: Mentor and teach junior staff, lead technical sessions, and contribute to the establishment of technical norms for the Lab.
• Intellectual Curiosity: Maintain awareness of the latest in AI-enabled autonomous systems, especially as it pertains to National Security use cases.
• Technical Communication: Develop and deliver compelling technical presentations for diverse audiences, tailor content for varied stakeholders, speak at conferences and workshops, and publish in pertinent peer-reviewed journals.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• A published track record of conducting machine learning and robotics research and applying scientific methods.
• Experience leading research projects and collaborating across research teams and stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; demonstrated ability to convey complex technical ideas to diverse audiences.
• Experience writing and delivering successful research proposals to funding agencies and leading the resulting projects.
• Experience with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, and other pertinent languages and frameworks.
• Familiarity with state of practice, emerging trends and opportunities in industry and government focusing on maritime, land, or space domains.
• Experience working with Department of War and Intelligence Community preferred.

Requirements

• BS in Robotics, Computer Science, Machine Learning, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline with ten (10) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with eight (8) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with five (5) years of experience.
• You will be subject to a background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance.
• This position is based onsite 5 days per week at SEI's offices in either Pittsburgh, PA or Arlington, VA.
• Willing to travel up to 25% of the time to locations outside of your home location. Travel sites include SEI offices in Pittsburgh and Arlington, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.