Biomechanics & Human Performance Lab Lead

Mississippi State University; Starkville, Northern (MS, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University in Starkville is seeking a Research Associate to lead the Athlete Engineering Institute's human performance laboratory, planning data collection across populations and ensuring readiness of sensing systems. You will mentor a cross-disciplinary team and translate laboratory work into sponsored deliverables.

The role collaborates with faculty and the Institute Director to support protocols, datasets, prototypes, and reporting for funded projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, kinesiology/exercise science, biomedical, or related field.
• Bachelor’s level can start at Research/Extension Associate I; Associate II requires 3 years relevant experience or Master’s equivalent; Associate III requires 6 years or Master’s degree.
• With a Master’s degree, Associate II requires 1 year relevant experience; Associate III requires 3 years; Senior Associate requires 6 years.
• Doctoral degree holders may start at Associate III with 2 years relevant experience; Senior Associate requires 3 years.

Responsibilities

• Lead lab operations: organize, inventory, maintain equipment, ensure readiness across active projects.
• Plan and execute data collection sessions; train personnel and student workers on equipment and protocols.
• Mentor students from diverse backgrounds and coordinate research and prototype work.
• Facilitate prototype design and iteration with students and faculty.
• Coordinate with IT/HPC on data pipelines, storage, and infrastructure.
• Support workforce-preservation activities (human factors, physiology, hydration/heat-illness, occupational health) for funded programs.
• Support reporting, data aggregation, and metrics/dashboarding for sponsored projects.

Job description

Mississippi State University in Starkville is seeking a Research Associate to lead the Athlete Engineering Institute's human performance laboratory, planning data collection across populations and ensuring readiness of sensing systems. You will mentor a cross-disciplinary team and translate laboratory work into sponsored deliverables.

The role collaborates with faculty and the Institute Director to support protocols, datasets, prototypes, and reporting for funded projects.