Postdoctoral Scholar at UCF: The University of Central Florida (UCF) is seeking a dedicated Postdoctoral Scholar to join a collaborative initiative with Northern Arizona University (NAU). This position focuses on developing and validating autonomous UAV systems for navigation and mapping within complex forested environments.
Designation
Postdoctoral Scholar
Research Area
Electrical and Computer Engineering; Autonomous Systems; UAV Navigation and Mapping
Location
Orlando, FL (Main Campus, University of Central Florida)
Eligibility/Qualification
Minimum Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Proficiency in algorithm development for autonomous systems.
- Experience with ROS2, UAV simulation (e.g., AirSim), and real-time system integration.
- Strong programming skills in C++ and Python.
- Excellent communication and collaborative skills.
- Experience in SLAM, sensor fusion, and LiDAR/depth camera data processing.
- Familiarity with deep learning for obstacle avoidance (e.g., map-less navigation).
- Background in environmental sensing or forestry applications.
- Prior involvement in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) or UAV field experience.
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Scholar will be responsible for:
- Developing and deploying UAV simulation environments using AirSim or similar platforms.
- Designing and implementing navigation, planning, and obstacle avoidance algorithms using ROS2.
- Conducting simulation studies and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
- Collaborating with researchers from NAU on algorithm integration, system testing, and field validation.
- Participating in co-authorship of technical publications and supporting data-driven forestry applications.
This position is initially based at UCF for a term of 10 months, with potential for continuation at NAU for subsequent phases, including field implementation and experimentation, depending on funding availability.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application, including contact information for at least three references. References will be contacted via automated email if the candidate advances to the final stage of the application process.
Last Date to Apply
Until position filled
Join us at UCF and be part of a dynamic community focused on impactful research and innovation in the field of autonomous systems!