Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering - UTK

The Post-Doctoral Research Associate is responsible for conducting innovative research and develop novel algorithms, models, and techniques for application of systems modeling and AI to Healthcare and other complex systems.  This includes the collaboration with the team members, and interact with the other collaborators.  This applies to one or more related or unrelated assigned areas of responsibility. Position will supervise the work of others as it relates to data collection, modeling development, and project management.

• Modeling & Simulation Development: Design and implement system dynamics, agent-based, and stochastic simulation models; conduct calibration, validation, and sensitivity analysis; develop hybrid AI-simulation frameworks. 
• AI / Data Systems Development: Develop machine learning and LLM-enabled systems (RAG, embeddings, vector databases); build data pipelines (ETL), scalable architectures (e.g., Spark), and model evaluation pipelines.
• Optimization & Computational Methods: Apply optimization techniques (gradient-based, heuristic, multi-objective); perform parameter estimation and scenario optimization for decision support.
• Research & Scholarly Activity: Design computational experiments; publish research; contribute to grant proposals and technical presentations.

Required Qualifications

Education: PhD in Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or Systems Engineering, and/or related field.

Experience: 

• AI & Machine Learning - Hands-on experience with LLMs, generative AI, RAG architectures, fine-tuning, prompt engineering, embeddings, and vector databases (e.g., FAISS). Solid grounding in supervised learning, probabilistic modeling, and model evaluation.
• Optimization & Computational Methods - Working knowledge of gradient-based and heuristic optimization, genetic/evolutionary algorithms, constrained and multi-objective optimization, and parameter calibration. A strong operations research foundation is expected.
• Advanced Python proficiency. We expect modular, quality research code, API development, version control (Git/GitHub), and the ability to handle both structured and unstructured data at scale.
• Simulation & Systems Modeling - Proficiency in some or all of the following modeling techniques: system dynamics (stock-flow structures, calibration, sensitivity analysis), agent-based modeling with scalable architectures, and stochastic/Monte Carlo simulation. We appreciate interest in hybrid modeling combing various modeling types to optimize the applicability and utility of the modeling solution. Strong model validation skills against empirical data are essential. 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 

• Strong ability to work independently
• Effective management, and organizational skills
• Decision making, planning, risk management sponsor management, project management, quality management, research skills
• Basic understanding of and experience in proposal development 
• Necessary analytical skills to manage price and negotiate research proposals
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• The ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously, and an ability to establish positive relationships with a wide variety of constituents and diverse groups. Specifically:
  • Knowledge of systems modeling, simulation (SD, ABM), and stochastic processes
  • Knowledge of machine learning, LLMs, and AI-enabled modeling approaches
  • Skill in Python programming, data engineering, and scalable software development
  • Skill in optimization methods and computational analysis
  • Ability to design, validate, and interpret complex simulation models
  • Ability to manage multiple research projects and work independently
  • Ability to communicate technical concepts effectively across disciplines
  • Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and research teams

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience:  

• Prior applied research experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable: healthcare systems modeling, disaster response, infrastructure resilience, energy systems analysis, maintenance/asset management