Research Associate

Inside Higher Ed; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 43,805 - 70,075; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution is seeking a motivated Research Associate in Lexington, KY. This role focuses on advancing the application of UAVs and UGVs for underground mine inspections. The position involves leading experiments, working with robotic systems, and collaborating on innovative research projects. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD and possess relevant skills in robotics and communication. Opportunities to publish and collaborate with industry are available.

Qualifications

• Experience working with robotic systems, sensors, or underground environments.
• Strong ability to conduct and lead field experiments.
• Demonstrates capability to contribute to scholarly output.

Responsibilities

• Play a key role in research for UAVs and UGVs for mine inspections.
• Work on multidisciplinary research projects and sensor integration.
• Lead experiments and collaborate with stakeholders to improve safety.

Skills

Robot Operating System (ROS)

LiDAR

Drone/UAV operation

Communication skills

Education

PhD

Job description

Job Title

Research Associate

Requisition Number

RE52718

Department Name

8H350: Mining Engineering

Work Location

Lexington, KY

Grade Level

44

Salary Range

$43,805-70,075/year

Type of Position

Staff

Position Time Status

Full-Time

Required Education

PhD

Required Related Experience

No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects 10-25 lbs, working in lab surroundings, sitting for computer analyses.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm

Job Summary

The Department of Mining Engineering at the University of Kentucky is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Associate to join our innovative research team. This position will play a key role in advancing the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for underground mine inspections. The successful candidate will work on multidisciplinary research projects involving field deployment of robotic systems, sensor integration, environmental data analysis, and automation in harsh underground environments. The position offers opportunities to lead experiments, contribute to scholarly publications, and collaborate with industry and government stakeholders to make underground mines safer and more efficient.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

• Experience working with Robot Operating System (ROS), LiDAR, or drone/UAV operation.
• Familiarity with underground mining conditions and ventilation systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Education/Experience

• Relevant experience working with robotic systems, sensors, or underground environments.
• Demonstrates ability to conduct and lead field experiments and contribute to scholarly output.

Deadline to Apply

01/06/2026

Equivalencies Information

https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

EEO Statement

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.