Research Associate Jobs in Waco, TX (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Waco, TX, United States

Job Description

A humble college founded before Texas was a state, Baylor now stands as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. Baylor has continued to invest in research and doctoral education, both solidifying and elevating its unique status as a preeminent Christian research university. Baylor is among 187 R1 institutions, just 52 of which are private universities. 

Since 2011, Baylor has been named as one of the nation's "Great Colleges to Work For". Great Colleges to Work For is one of the country's largest and most respected workplace recognition programs. Each year, Great Colleges recognizes the colleges and universities that get top employee ratings regarding workplace practices and policies across 10 areas. This recognition is based on faculty and staff responses to a related annual survey. The survey, conducted by ModernThink, is a way for colleges and universities to gain a deeper understanding of how their employees experience and view various aspects of the institution. This continued recognition further affirms Baylor as a rewarding place to build a career. 
 

What We're Looking For
The AVIA (Advanced Vehicle Intelligence and Autonomy) Lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Baylor University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. AVIA Lab conducts research at the intersection of aerospace and artificial intelligence, developing cutting-edge techniques in machine learning, optimization, control, and estimation. Current research thrusts include multi-agent coordination, scheduling, and task allocation; energy consumption modeling and validation; airborne wind energy harvesting and optimization; and uncertainty-aware decision making. Our externally funded projects span both theoretical foundations and real-world experimental validation for advanced air mobility, tethered systems, drone surveying, and human-AI interaction.

We are seeking a motivated and creative researcher with a strong publication record and hands-on experience in one or more of these areas. The ideal candidate can work independently on challenging open problems while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Required: A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field (degree must be conferred before start date).
Preferred: Experience in reinforcement learning (deep RL, multi-agent RL), distributed optimization, task allocation, control, ROS/ROS2, MATLAB/Simulink, experimentation with aerial platforms.

What You Will Do

• 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

What You Can Expect

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.

Explore & Engage

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds.  Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally.  If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!

Baylor University, a private not-for-profit university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, is committed to compliance with all applicable anti-discrimination laws, including those regarding age, race, color, sex, national origin, military service, genetic information, and disability. Baylor complies with statutory Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity requirements. Baylor's full official Notice of Non-Discrimination may be read online.