Postdoctoral Fellow Application of Machine Learning and Robotics

Florida Atlantic University; United States; On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, FL seeks a 12-month, non-tenure Postdoctoral Fellow to develop robotics and CPS solutions using ML/AI for marine science. You will lead algorithms, software, and hardware to extend the HAUCS framework and conduct field tests, data analyses, and presentations.

Ideal candidates hold a PhD in electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field, with hands-on robotics, UAV development, and ML expertise, plus

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field with strong robotics background.
• Experience in UAV hardware and embedded systems development.
• Proficiency in ML algorithms and image analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of algorithms, software, and hardware for the HAUCS framework.
• Conduct field experiments and validate models with marine data.
• Prepare data reports and present at conferences; publish in journals.
• Mentor students and junior scientists; identify funding opportunities.

Skills

Robotics

UAV development

Hardware design

Embedded systems

Machine learning

Image analysis

Team player

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science

Job description

Position Summary

Florida Atlantic University's Systems and Imaging Laboratory (SAIL) at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, FL, is seeking a 12-month, non-tenure Postdoctoral Fellow position. Extension of the appointment beyond one year is possible, depending on funding availability and performance. This position will focus on developing robotics and cyber physical systems solutions using machine learning and artificial intelligence to support different aspects of marine science, with opportunities to expand to other areas. Currently, SAIL is conducting multiple projects ranging from Hybrid Aerial Underwater Robotic System (HAUCS)– a cyber physical system (CPS) for aquaculture, to sensors and platforms for maritime applications. In this position, your primary task will be to lead the development of algorithms, software, and hardware to extend the current HAUCS framework. This includes developing the sensors, sensing robotic platforms, environmental prediction models, and visualization tools as needed. Additional tasks include field experiments to test the instruments and validate models; preparing data reports and presentations for technical conferences; publishing results in peer-reviewed journals; and mentoring students and junior scientists. There will also be opportunities to work on other related projects, including the application of AI to solve underwater vision problems and Phase III of the Next Generation Sensor Systems for Natural Oceanic Bioluminescence Assessments. The Postdoctoral Fellow will be able to grow his/her skills in research and grant writing by taking an active role in identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals.

Salary: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00

College or Department: Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute/Systems and Imaging Lab (SAIL)

Location: Harbor Branch (HBOI)

Work Days and Hours: N/A

Application Deadline: 2026-12-31

Minimum Qualifications

• A doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in electrical engineering, computer science, engineering, or related area.
• A team player who is willing to train junior scientists in the lab.
• Expertise in robotics and unmanned aerial vehicle development, in particular electronic hardware design and embedded system development.
• Comprehension of common machine learning algorithms and image analysis.
• Independent, self-motivated, well-organized, and critical thinker.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Background Screening

Selected candidates must successfully complete and pass all employment screenings prior to the start of employment. Employment screenings may include a criminal background check (level I and level II), motor vehicle check, credit check, reference checks, alcohol, and drug screening check.

Accommodations

Individuals requiring accommodation, please call 561-297-3057.

Florida Atlantic University is where your future begins. With over 30,000 students from all 50 states and over 180 countries, 21 intercollegiate teams, 180 plus degree programs, and an administration that thrives on discovery and excellence, Florida Atlantic University is pushing the boundaries of higher education. At FAU, the faculty and staff are trailblazers and innovators with a passion for finding creative solutions while advancing science, art and technology in all disciplines. Student success, excellence and community engagement are some of our highest values as a university. These values are prominent throughout FAU's community and are essential to the employee experience. FAU is committed to the principles of engaged teaching, research and service, and reflects this commitment as a key Platform in its 2015 - 2025 Strategic Plan. Our work environment is a hub of cultures from across the nation and the world, making FAU a place where collaboration flourishes. All persons aspiring to achieve excellence in the practice of these principles are encouraged to apply.

Florida Atlantic University is an equal access/equal opportunity employer that complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination.

If you require an accommodation to participate in any part of the recruitment process, please contact Florida Atlantic’s Office of Civil Rights and Title IX at 561-297-3004 or send an email to [e-mail].

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Florida Statute 1010.35 - Screening Foreign Researchers Pursuant to Florida law, any applicant or student seeking employment in a research or research-related support position who is a citizen of a foreign country and not a permanent resident of the U.S., or who is a citizen or permanent resident but is affiliated with or has had at least 1 year of employment or training in China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, or Syria is subject to additional screening. Applicants meeting those criteria will be required to provide the following information before any offer of employment can be made: every institution of higher education attended; all previous employment since the applicant’s 18th birthday; list of all published material, current and pending research funding from any source, including details about the research, your role, funding source, and amount; list and description of any non-university professional activities; any affiliation with an institution or program in a foreign country. Selected applicants will be required to provide additional information per the Statute, including a complete copy of your passport; and, if available, the most recently submitted DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application).