Postdoctoral Scholar

Michigan Technological University; Houghton (MI); On-site; USD 58,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan Technological University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for their Computing and Robotic Construction Laboratory. This role involves conducting research in automation, AI, robotics, and data analytics to enhance construction engineering practices.

The successful candidate will engage in research activities, support project management, mentor students, and collaborate with various stakeholders. A PhD in a related field is required, along with experience in programming and construction technologies. Salary range is $58,000 to $60,000.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant engineering or data science field.
• Experience with construction automation, AI, and robotics.
• Strong programming and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in automation and AI technologies.
• Support project activities related to construction safety and productivity.
• Prepare technical reports and research papers.

Skills

Research experience in construction automation

Programming skills (Python, MATLAB, C/C++)

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

PhD in construction engineering, civil engineering, or related field

Tools

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

ROS

Job description

Ensured Consideration Date: July 20th 2026

The Computing and Robotic Construction Laboratory at the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering, Michigan Technological University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. The successful candidate will contribute to research projects focused on advancing automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, sensing, data analytics, and digital technologies for construction engineering and management. The postdoctoral researcher will work with an interdisciplinary team to develop and evaluate innovative methods, tools, and systems that improve construction safety, productivity, quality, and workforce development. The position will involve conducting research, preparing publications and proposals, mentoring students, supporting project activities, and collaborating with academic, industry, and community partners.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties

• Conduct research in construction automation, AI, robotics, sensing, data analytics, and digital construction technologies.
• Support research related to construction safety, productivity, quality, workforce development, human-technology interaction, infrastructure management, and intelligent construction systems.
• Prepare journal papers, conference papers, technical reports, project documentation, and research presentations.
• Contribute to proposal development and future funding opportunities.
• Collaborate with faculty, students, external researchers, industry partners, and community stakeholders.

Required Education

• PhD in construction engineering, civil engineering, computer science, robotics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, data science, information science, or a closely related field.

Required Experience

• Research experience in one or more areas related to construction automation, AI, robotics, sensing, data analytics, cyberinfrastructure, digital construction, or infrastructure systems.
• Experience preparing research publications, technical reports, or project documentation.
• Programming, modeling, simulation, system development, or data analysis experience using tools such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, ROS, JavaScript, R, or similar platforms.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong research, analytical, programming, technical writing, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to interdisciplinary projects.
• Ability to prepare high-quality manuscripts, reports, documentation, proposals, and presentations.
• Strong communication, teamwork, time-management, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to responsible research, reproducible methods, ethical AI, and safe technology development.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of construction engineering, construction management, infrastructure systems, digital construction, automation, or robotics.
• Knowledge of artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, sensing, data analytics, simulation, human-technology interaction, or cyberinfrastructure.
• Knowledge of construction safety, productivity analysis, quality control, project monitoring, prefabrication, modular construction, or infrastructure management.
• Familiarity with GitHub, Docker, ROS, cloud computing, databases, APIs, BIM platforms, simulation tools, sensors, or robotic hardware.
• Ability to engage with academic, industry, government, and professional-society stakeholders.

Training and Other Conditions of Employment

• Employee Safety Overview
• Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, Retaliation Training
• Annual Data Security Training
• Annual Title IX Training
• Background check will be performed as a condition of employment.

Other Conditions of Employment

• This position is contingent upon the continued availability of external funding.
• Successful applicants are responsible for ensuring eligibility to work in the United States at the effective date of appointment and maintaining eligibility without sponsorship throughout the appointment.
• Full ensured consideration will be given to applicants who apply on or before July 20th 2026.

Salary

The salary range for this position is $58,000 - $60,000. The final salary will depend on experience and qualifications.

Equal Opportunity

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Reasonable Accommodation

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or accommodations during Michigan Tech’s hiring process please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or [e-mail].