Faculty Position FY22-117
April 19, 2022

Hiring Unit
College of Arts & Science, Department of Physics

Position Title
Research Fellow in Mechatronics and Systems Design

Job Description/Responsibilities
The SIUE Department of Physics is seeking qualified candidates to fill a Research Fellow in Mechatronics and Systems Design. The Research Fellow will be working on the DoD NDEP Research Grant: Expanding the Pipeline and Enhancing Education of Students Pursuing Careers in Space. The Research Fellow will:
- Assist in the creation of space related STEM kits as educational resources for undergraduate and K-12 classrooms for enhancing education of students pursuing careers in space.
-Develop learning objectives and questions that will showcase understanding of the kit's functionality and purpose.
-Create detailed documentation and videos that will provide a clear step-by-step process of kit assembly and use.
-Program and install system electronics related to each kit.
-Configure and develop ground control station software that will be used to communicate with the flight control system.
-Develop communication between Raspberry Pi+ Navio2 Flight Controller and External Companion Computers equipped with additional sensor packages to aid in data collection and expand functionality.
-Program and implement analog and digital sensors.
-Handle the modeling, design, and fabrication of Avionics systems, Rocket Bodies, and other miscellaneous components required in rapid prototyping and testing of kits using Computer-aided Design (CAD) tools.
-Identify and troubleshoot all kits and components through iterative design.
-Communicate and collaborate with other universities in the development of kits.

Minimum Qualifications
-Master's degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics Engineering
-Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary role in a team
-Working Knowledge and Experience in applied Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, and Computer Engineering Technologies
-Knowledge and understanding of programming including C, C++, and Python
-Knowledge of basic electrical and programming concepts including: UART, I2 C, and SPI, GPIO, and Analog/Digital Sensors
-Understanding and experience using Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Navio2, and Linux based systems
-Ability to fabricate and work with electrical components and systems

Preferred Experience/Qualifications
-Experience in Rocketry, Aircraft, Rover, and Submarine based systems
-Experience in Ardupilot flight control software
-Experience in some form of ground control station software (Mission Planner, APM Planner, MavProxy)
-Experience in CAD modeling software
-Experience with 3D Printing and 3D Printing software
-Understanding of topics: cameras/optics, remote sensing, communications, data acquisition, telemetry, rocketry, robotics
-Understanding of electrical components: brushed and brush less motors, electronic speed controllers (ESC), battery eliminator circuits (BECJ, lithium batteries and safe handling

Terms of Appointment
Federal grant-funded Research Fellow. Term contract beginning May 16, 2022 through September 14, 2023. Possibility of renewal based on funds.

Source of Funds
Federal

Salary Range
Commensurate with education, training and demonstrated interest.

Application Process
Applications must include a letter of application, vitae/resume, unofficial transcripts, and the names and contact information for three references. Please send application materials to:

Dr. Jeffrey Sabby, Associate Professor Department of Physics
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Campus Box 1654
Edwardsville, IL 62026

Submissions may be emailed in pdf format to: jsabby@siue.edu

Application Deadline
For optimal consideration in the first pool of applicants, all application materials must be received by May 17, 2022. The position will remain posted until filled.

SIUE is a state university. Benefits under state-sponsored plans may not be available to holders of F1 or J1 visas. Applicants will be subject to a background check prior to an offer of employment.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville nurtures an open, respectful, and welcoming climate that facilitates learning and work. As an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce, we will not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, national origin, religion, disability, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation or veteran’s status. In concert with our diverse student community, we strongly encourage candidates from historically underrepresented groups, including women, members of racially minoritized groups, and individuals with disabilities, to apply. For more on our State of Diversity, visit SIUE Mission, Goals and Plans

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