The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is hiring a Post Doctoral Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary team transforming agriculture through robotics, remote sensing, and data analytics. This role will lead research in autonomous vehicles, AI-powered decision-making, and precision land management technologies, contributing to sustainable agriculture and next-gen Agri-Tech deployment.
What You'll Do
- Design and deploy autonomous vehicles (UGVs, UAVs, USVs) for environmental data collection from soil and water.
- Execute and analyze drone missions for multispectral imagery and spraying using Agri-Tech software like Pix4D, SMS Advanced, ArcGIS, Mission Planner, and John Deere Operation Center.
- Integrate and maintain FarmBot platforms with IoT, renewable energy (solar/wind), and smart irrigation, and explore other smart and vertical farming technologies in indoor settings.
- Publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, mentor interdisciplinary student teams, and participate in extension efforts.
- Maintain UAV certifications (FAA Part 107/137) and engage in continuous professional development in programming, robotics, and Agri-Tech.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
What We're Looking For
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Science, Robotics, Environmental Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Proven expertise in precision agriculture, remote sensing, and robotic systems integration.
- Hands-on experience with Pixhawk, RTK GPS, UAV operation, FarmBot, and spatial data processing.
- Programming proficiency in Python, C/C++, Lua, MATLAB, or similar languages.
- Demonstrated research productivity through peer-reviewed publications.
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary work.
- Knowledge in field-based research with real world application.
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification and willingness to seek FAA Part 137 Certification.
Technical Stack
- Software: Pix4D, SMS Advanced, ArcGIS, Mission Planner, John Deere Operation Center
- Hardware/Systems: Pixhawk, RTK GPS, FarmBot
- Languages: Python, C/C++, Lua, MATLAB
Team & Environment
You will be part of an interdisciplinary team focused on advanced agricultural research.
Benefits & Compensation
- Salary: $65,000 - $70,000
- Health benefits (medical, prescription, dental, flexible spending accounts)
- Retirement plans (State or Optional Retirement Plan with Fidelity or TIAA)
- Supplemental Retirement Accounts (TIAA, Fidelity, or MSRP-Nationwide) with $600 annual state match
- Life Insurance (state sponsored MetLife, USM sponsored MetLife Plan, life insurance and long-term disability insurance)
- Tuition Remission
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid holidays
- Annual leave (22 days per year)
- Sick leave (15 days per year)
- Personal leave (3 days per year)
Work Mode
This position requires onsite work.
UMES is an EEO/AA employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or political affiliation. Minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
