Visiting Postdoctoral Researcher, Soft Matter

Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is currently seeking a One-Year Postdoctoral Researcher to support AI/ML research related to Soft Matter and Physical Sciences applied to low-gravity Exploration Technology. Work will focus on the physical science associated with combustion, fluid mechanics, and transport processes in micro and partial gravity environments.

The position involves developing a novel AI/ML and computer vision framework to uncover fundamental properties related to physical sciences, especially soft matter (active matter and granular media). Some potential projects on which the selected candidate will work include (a) feature extraction, segmentation, and labeling of images; (b) object tracking and 3D reconstruction of experimental observations using multiple optical cameras (e.g., Neural Radiance Field); (c) deconvolution of mixed signals; and (d) physics-informed machine learning.

While previous experience in the above-mentioned subjects is helpful, it is not required.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide technical expertise and support in conjunction with the Lead Discipline Scientist and project scientists of Soft Matter, including but not limited to soft active matter. Aim to clarify nonlinear equilibrium dynamics of individual components, the behavior of individual components under stimuli, the evolution of microstructure, and the emerging mechanical and rheological behavior.
• Work on multiple different projects.
• Guide incoming interns (graduate and undergraduate).
• Provide input on future scientific pursuits.
• Publish research work in peer-reviewed journals and represent soft matter research at GRC at various conferences.
• Participate in regular customer reviews of products, as well as independent reviews at select delivery points in the schedule.
• Candidate needs to be open to training for additional analytical, numerical, simulation, and analysis skills.

Work will be in accordance with NASA approved procedures governing the development and conduct of space experiments, computational models, and software. It is expected that the candidate will publish research results in conference proceedings and refereed journals.

Required Qualifications: 

Education: 

• Ph.D. in Computer Science/ Engineering/ Chemistry/ Materials Science/ Physics or related areas.  

Experience: 

• Strong background in AI/ML, computer vision, and efficient computing methods. 
• Exposure to soft matter, different microscopy, and spectroscopic methods will be a plus, but not a must.

The candidate is also expected to: 

• Be a team player; 
• Be a self-starter;
• Have a willingness to learn and collaborate with other scientists; 
• Be curious and open to working on interdisciplinary subjects;
• Have strong verbal and written communication skills; and 
• Experience with documenting studies through presentations or written peer-reviewed publications.

Working Conditions: 

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. Extensive online usage. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential duties and responsibilities.

Travel:  Negligible 
 
Applicants should apply to the posting at USRA Careers and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vitae. 

Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu.   

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity. 

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