Research and Development Image Scientist

Penn State University; United States; On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) seeks an Image Scientist to join the Image Science and Computer Vision team. You will work with a diverse engineering group to design, test, and integrate imaging solutions for defense, law enforcement, security, and disaster response.

This role involves leading programs, summarizing research, modeling imaging chains for EO/SAR, applying the scientific method across disciplines, and deriving geospatial insights from data.

Qualifications

• Imaging systems modeling for EO/SAR.
• Leadership in imaging system R&D programs.
• Independent research with clear documentation.
• Design of experiments and meaningful metrics.
• Ability to meet deadlines on research tasks.
• Excellent communication to diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead programs and be part of a highly collaborative team.
• Support scientific research by summarizing current work and materials.
• Model the imaging chain across sensing modalities.
• Apply the scientific method to engineering and geospatial sciences.
• Capture information from geospatial data to better interpret events.
• Grow capabilities, plan applied research, and advise on new tech.
• Engage in research from concept to production systems.

Skills

Imaging systems modeling

Leadership in RD programs

Independent research

Experiment design

Communication skills

Geospatial data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science

Master's degree or higher (preferred)

Tools

Python

R

MATLAB

Java

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are seeking an Image Scientist to join our Image Science and Computer Vision team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This team advances the state-of-the-art in image processing, computer vision, and computational imaging. You will work with a diverse engineering team to design, build, test, and/or integrate solutions to problems in the area of defense, law enforcement, security, disaster relief, human geography, disaster preparedness, and first response.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .

You will:

• Lead programs and be part of a highly collaborative team


• Support scientific research projects by summarizing current research and application materials


• Model the imaging chain for many sensing modalities and platforms across a wide array of applications


• Apply the scientific method across multiple disciplines to engineering and geospatial sciences and develop system analytics through organized experimentation


• Develop the ability to discover and capture information from geospatial data to better represent the most advanced understanding of world events, systems, and discrete entities


• Grow career and capabilities, Plan and conduct applied research, provide technical guidance, report results, foster trusted relationships with sponsors, lead small-to-medium research efforts, and advise on new and evolving technology and techniques


• Engage in research efforts ranging from proof-of-concept through integrated production systems.

Required skills/experience areas include:

• Subject matter expertise in modeling imaging systems and the image formation process in EO and/or SAR


• Support of imaging system research and development programs, and demonstrated leadership capabilities


• Independent research and high-quality documentation of findings to communicate to a diverse team


• Design of experiments, analysis, and design or apply meaningful metrics to measure results


• Execution of specific research projects and meet task deadlines and goals


• Excellent communication skills Ability to express yourself and ideas successfully to others in order to provide understanding

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

• Master's degree or higher in a relevant field of study


• Writing and executing scripts in Python, R, Java, MATLAB, or some other broadly accessible language


• Support of DoD/IC research programs

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science


• 14+ years of relevant experience


• Required Certifications: None

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science


• 5+ years of relevant experience


• Required Certifications: None

Your work location will fully on-site located in State College, PA but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability . Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process .

For further information on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu .

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):

Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Inf