Job Details

Postdoctoral Researcher Position

The Nevada Center for Applied Research (NCAR) at the University of Nevada, Reno seeks a thoughtful and innovative postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary team developing autonomous drone systems for wildfire prevention.

This NASA-funded position, in close collaboration with NASA Goddard Space Flight Center scientists, offers a unique opportunity to apply cutting-edge robotics to protect communities and ecosystems from catastrophic wildfires.

Working alongside experts in robotics, forest ecology, remote sensing, and fire science, you'll be developing autonomous navigation systems that enable drones to fly safely beneath forest canopies, collecting critical data that current technologies cannot capture. This meaningful work directly supports forest managers in making informed decisions that safeguard both human communities and natural ecosystems.

Candidates should have the ability to work both independently and as part of a small, close-knit team, as well as the ability to perform fieldwork in mountain forest environments, including hiking on uneven terrain while carrying equipment (up to 50 lbs) and working outdoors in various weather conditions.

We value a supportive, collaborative environment where team members can grow both professionally and personally while contributing to impactful research. This grant is funded for 3 years. The initial appointment is for one year with a planned extension based on funding continuation and satisfactory performance.

Duties: Working closely with a small, dedicated team, you will:

• Design and implement SLAM-based navigation algorithms for GPS-denied forest environments (45%)

• Develop multi-sensor integration software for LiDAR, cameras, and IMU/GNSS systems (30%)

• Support flight operations and field deployments at forest test sites (20%)

• Share your work through publications and open-source contributions (5%)

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

• Demonstrated expertise in SLAM, preferably aerial SLAM projects

• Strong programming skills in C++ and Python with ROS/ROS2 experience

• Experience with autonomous path planning and control systems

• Track record of hands-on robotics projects (please include GitHub/portfolio links)

Preferred Experience:

• Aerial robotics/drone development experience

• GTSAM or similar factor graph optimization frameworks

• Field robotics deployment in challenging environments

• Multi-sensor calibration and fusion

• Commitment to open-source development and reproducible research

• Interest in environmental applications and forest ecosystem preservation

Work Environment & Expectations:

• On-site position with fieldwork requirements

• Collaborative small team (2-4 members) with mentorship opportunities

• Balance of lab development and meaningful fieldwork in forest environments

• Flexible schedule supporting work-life balance and personal growth

Compensation Grade: Postdoctoral Scholar - $81,120 - $86,060 annually with comprehensive benefits

Salary is competitive and commensurate with related education and experience.