Astrodynamics Research Engineer/Scientist - MMAE - Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

The Department of Mechanical, Materials and Aerospace Engineering in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for an Astrodynamics Research Engineer/Scientist.

About the Opportunity

This position will work in the general area of orbital mechanics or astrodynamics, and modeling and simulation. The specific subjects of interest include (1) orbit determination and prediction, (2) uncertainty quantification, and (3) space debris collision analyses.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

• Undertake research in the relevant areas towards achieving the research project milestones and schedule in collaboration with team members across organizations, to also include early-career researchers, research associates, postdocs, graduate research assistants, and undergraduates.
• Identify and assist with the acquisition of funding from public, private, and governmental sources.
• Search scientific literature to select and modify methods and procedures most appropriate for related research goals.
• Write and present research/study status reports for projects and manage regular status updates with the customer in coordination with the program managers.
• Prepare the results of research for publication in relevant conferences and journals.
• Where appropriate, involve and mentor graduate students in research related activities.

• An advanced master's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field from an accredited university.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience involving space operations, astrodynamics, state estimation, space object characterization, and sensor management.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of space situational/domain awareness and state estimation and filtering.
• Skilled in developing and prototyping algorithms and models used to process and analyze orbital tracking data from a variety of sensor types.

Preferred Qualifications

• A PhD is preferred.

Application

The position is available for immediate start and will be renewed annually dependent on performance and funding.

To apply for this position, visit https://careers.wvu.edu/career-opportunities. Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a two-page research summary, two representative publications, and contact information for at least three professional references. Only candidates who submit complete documentation will be considered in the review process. For further information, please contact Dr. Piyush Mehta, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. You may also visit the MAE website at: https://mmae.statler.wvu.edu/.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.