GNSS Digital Signal Processing Research Associate

University of Texas; Austin, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Laboratories at UT Austin seeks a Research Associate to join the DSP team focused on GPS, GNSS, and RF applications. You will conduct high-level DSP research, publish results, and implement software in C++ and Python within a collaborative environment.

The role requires a PhD in a relevant field, strong publication record, and ability to work across teams while handling sensitive information. On-site Austin, TX location with occasional travel.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, engineering, or applied sciences.
• Experience developing software in C++ and Python for scientific computing.
• Post-grad experience in statistical/computational algorithms.
• Record of peer‑reviewed publications and presenting technical content.

Responsibilities

• Perform DSP research for GPS, GNSS, and RF applications.
• Implement algorithms in C++ and Python in a team setting.
• Develop and execute test cases; document implementations clearly.
• Provide guidance to staff and students; contribute to project reviews.

Skills

C++

Python

Git

Linux

Education

PhD in physics or engineering

Tools

GitHub

GitLab

Job description

**Purpose**Applied Research Laboratories is a University Affiliated Research Center at The University of Texas at Austin, located on the Pickle Research Campus in North Austin. Through fundamental research, innovative science, and applied engineering, ARL:UT makes significant contributions in support of national security.Within ARL:UT, the Space and Geophysics Laboratory (SGL) engages in research in electromagnetic propagation, geo-positioning, and remote sensing. The lab monitors the long-term performance of GPS, addresses the specification of government geodetic-quality GPS receivers, and designs and executes government tests for industry-produced receivers.We are seeking a Research Associate to join our Digital Signal Processing (DSP) team. As a member of the team, you will be researching and developing new DSP techniques for GPS, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), and other radio frequency (RF) applications.**Responsibilities*** Perform high-level independent digital signal processing research relevant to the interests of SGL.* Present and publish your research, both internally and externally. This may involve participating in project reviews and technical interface meetings to present designs and test results to sponsors and other external organizations, as well as publishing work in scientific journals and presenting work at conferences.* Implement software algorithms in C++ and Python in a collaborative environment. Work closely with team members to define interfaces between program components. Document implementations thoroughly and clearly. Define, implement, and execute test cases for program functions.* Provide guidance and assistance to other full time employees and student employees.* Provide technical leadership and identify new directions for research.* Other related functions as assigned and occasional travel to support meetings.## Required Qualifications* PhD in physics, engineering, other applied science(s).* Experience developing software in C++ or Python for scientific computing applications.* One or more years post-graduate experience developing statistical and computational algorithms.* Demonstrated record of authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications.* Demonstrated record of presenting scientific content to technical and non-technical audiences.Applicant must have a dynamic skill set, willing to work with new technologies, be highly organized and capable of planning and coordinating multiple tasks and managing their time. The position will require attention to detail, effective problem solving skills and excellent judgment. Ability to work independently with sensitive and confidential information, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without daily supervision and effectively communicate with diverse groups of clients. Able to work under pressure and accept supervision. Regular and punctual attendance.US Citizen. Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to the project requirements of the position.## Preferred Qualifications* Demonstrated experience with analysis and interpretation of results of processing digital receiver data.* Experience with any of the following: software-defined radio, multi-rate signal processing, HF radio, remote sensing, radar, wireless communications, RF signal processing, radio astronomy/interferometry, ionosphere, geodesy, reference frames, orbital mechanics, and digital design.* Experience designing, implementing, and deploying robust scientific software.* Experience with high-performance computing.* Experience processing GNSS carrier phase signals.* Experience using GNSS hardware and techniques for precise geo-positioning.* Experience in writing proposals for and leading externally-funded research projects.* Experience modeling or employing models of geophysical phenomena.* Experience estimating orbits of spacecraft and satellites.* Experience employing statistical estimation techniques.* Proficiency with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, FORTRAN, or similar.* Experience developing on Linux and Windows platforms, including terminal-based environments (bash), version control (Git and GitHub/GitLab), and cloud services (such as AWS).* Proficiency with LaTeX.* Eligibility for immediate access to classified information.* Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.**General Notes**An agency designated by the federal government handles the investigation as to the requirement for eligibility for access to classified information. Factors considered during this investigation include but are not limited to allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations, drug involvement, the likelihood of continuation of such conduct, etc.Please mark \"yes\" on the application question that asks if additional materials are required. Failure to attach all additional materials listed below may result in a delay in application processing.Visit our website for additional information about Applied Research Laboratories.UT Austin offers a competitive benefits package that includes:· 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage· Retirement contributions· Paid vacation and sick time· Paid holidaysPlease visit our to learn more about the total benefits offered.## Salary Range$120,000-$165,000+/negotiable depending on qualifications.## Working Conditions* Standard office conditions* Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation* Use of manual dexterity* Some weekend, evening and holiday work* Possible interstate/intrastate travel## Required Materials* Resume/CV* work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor* Letter of interest* Unofficial college transcripts**Important** **for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers:** You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.**Important for Current university employees and contingent workers:** As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.**Start Here, Change the World**At The University of Texas at Austin, tradition meets innovation in the heart of a city that frequents lists of the best places to live and work. Named by Forbes as one of America's Best Large Employers for the sixth year in a row in 2025, UT offers both a dynamic work environment and a gateway to vibrant local culture. Whether you're at the forefront of the student experience, conducting world-changing research or supporting the engine that drives Texas' flagship university, working at UT means making a lasting impact on our city, our state and our world.Our more than 20,000 faculty and staff empower 55,000+ students to challenge ideas, pursue passions and shape their futures. Joining UT, you'll