Research Associate III - Robotics Institute

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bus pass

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute is seeking a Research Associate III to join its team in Pittsburgh. The role involves independently designing experiments and research protocols, setting up sound procedures, and potentially performing lab management tasks.

You will collect and analyze data, develop modeling methods, and pursue ML research on LLMs/VLMs and RL. A Master's degree plus 1–3 years of research/lab experience are expected.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree required.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication.
• Strong problem-solving and reasoning abilities.
• Strong project management skills.
• 1–3 years of research experience.
• 1–3 years of lab experience.
• 1–3 years of data collection and analysis experience.

Responsibilities

• Collects, verifies and manages data. Develops data analysis methods and protocols.
• Independently designs experiments and research protocols. Develops sound procedures.
• May develop computational modeling methods.
• May manage IRB approval process and document IRB policies.
• May perform lab management functions including budget, purchasing and safety policies.
• May program software in support of job functions.
• Perform research on ML algorithms, focusing on LLMs/VLMs and RL.
• Publishes research in top venues and presents at academic conferences.
• Support the lab including mentoring and collaboration with students.
• Writes and edits recommendations and reports.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Oral & Written Communication

Problem Solving

Project Management

Research Experience (1-3 yrs)

Lab Experience (1-3 yrs)

Research Methodology

Data Collection & Analysis

Education

Master's Degree

Job description

Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute is searching for a Research Associate III to join their team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment.

We are seeking creative and upbeat Research Associate III that will independently design experiments and research protocols. Independently sets up and performs sound experimental procedures. May perform lab management functions.

Responsibilities

• Collects, verifies and manages data. Develops data analysis methods and protocols.
• Independently designs experiments and research protocols. Independently sets up and performs sound experimental procedures. Suggests improvements in research methodology.
• May develop computational modeling methods.
• May manage IRB approval process and document IRB policies for assigned research projects.
• May perform lab management functions including: Adheres to established lab budget and provides input to budget planning. Supervises purchasing and plans capital expenditures. Establishes and enforces safety policies and procedures. Ensures regulatory requirements are adhered to. Establishes policies and supervises the maintenance of administrative records. Supervises lab employees including assignment of day-to-day duties. Assists with hiring.
• May program software in support of job functions.
• Perform research on ML algorithms, focusing on LLMs/VLMs and RL.
• Performs complex and original data analysis in order to produce reports. Documents and processes.
• Publish research in top tier venues and give academic research presentations on it.
• Support the lab including work on projects and mentoring and collaborating with other students.
• Writes and edits recommendations and reports.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master's Degree
• Strong Analytical Skills
• Strong Oral and Written Communication Skills
• Strong Problem-Solving and Reasoning Skills
• Strong Project Management Skills
• 1-3 Years of Research Experience
• 1-3 Years of Research Lab Experience
• 1-3 Years of Research Methodology Experience
• 1-3 Years of Data Collection and Analysis Experience

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Training

• OSHA Hazardous Materials Safety Training

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
• Statement of Assurance