Postdoctoral Research Associate - Mechanical Engineering

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will join the AVIA Lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Baylor University, conducting research at the intersection of aerospace and artificial intelligence. The role involves designing and executing research experiments, operating advanced instruments, analyzing data, and preparing manuscripts and reports. The researcher will also support grant development, mentor students, and contribute to lab operations, working on projects related to multi-agent coordination, energy modeling, airborne wind energy, and uncertainty-aware decision making.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research experiments; develop and document experimental procedures and protocols
• Operate and maintain advanced research instruments and testbeds
• Analyze data, verify accuracy, and develop recommendations based on results
• Build and maintain research databases and datasets; implement quality control procedures
• Prepare and submit manuscripts, conference papers, technical reports, and presentations
• Support grant proposal development and identify externally funded research opportunities
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to graduate and undergraduate students
• Support lab operations and research infrastructure
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor's mission
• Ability to comply with University policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

Requirements

• Required: A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field (degree must be conferred before start date).

Nice to have

• Preferred: Experience in reinforcement learning (deep RL, multi-agent RL), distributed optimization, task allocation, control, ROS/ROS2, MATLAB/Simulink, experimentation with aerial platforms.

Benefits

• As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus. To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.