Researcher In Nursery Crops, Department Of Plant Sciences: UTIA

Research Scientist

The successful candidate will:

• Work closely with the principal investigator and collaborators to execute research objectives

• Utilize an existing second iteration proof-of-concept system to develop an inventory system that can identify and record individual trees, and their sizes and locations in the field

• Develop a mapping algorithm in conjunction with GPS navigation to precisely detect overlapping trees

• Develop multi-lingual reporting capabilities to document nursery inventory

• Design and conduct research experiments, analyze data, and summarize the results

• Contribute to scientific publications and conferences and outreach to the green industry

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning and execution of experimental protocols to achieve research goals

• Build a ROS software framework with Gazebo (3D simulation environment) for a simulated digital nursery that validates and tests algorithms and robotic behavior

• Design autonomy architecture; assemble sensing/mapping payload

• Validate 3D→2D mapping

• Develop real-time detection/counting algorithms

• Develop multi-threaded framework for real-time display

• Optimize point cloud processing

• Coordinate with collaborating farms to conduct field tests of the experimental TALI system

• Deploy and test payload at station/campus nursery and at collaborating nurseries

• Document research activities and results in a written log and with photographs

• Contribute to manuscript preparation

• Proactively identify when supplies need to be ordered

• Participate in LEAP monthly planning calls, LEAP Objective 1 calls, and others as needed

  • Disseminate information and provide service to the Green Industry, LEAP Team, community through activities such as reviewing manuscripts and extension publications; host tour groups, provide website content and content for advisory board reports, present at local, state and national events such as Cultivate, IPPS, and other Green Industry events

  • Present scientific findings to scientific audiences through departmental seminars, and oral presentations and posters at the ASABE, ASHS and other professional conferences

Qualifications

• Required Qualifications:

  • Education:

    • Master's Degree in Mechanical Eng., Biosystems Eng., Comp. Info Sci., Power Electronics or similar field is required.

  • Experience:

    • Two years of experience in farm machinery, robotics, AI, autonomous navigation, computer programming, or machine vision.

  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

    • Must possess proficient written and oral English communication skills.

    • Must be self-motivated and highly organized, operate autonomously, and ability to work with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students, and producers to conduct field, and laboratory research.

    • Must have a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques for their applications to crop production.

    • Candidates are expected to have or be able to obtain a US Driver's License.

• Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in computer programming including C++, Python, automatic controller designs, sensor applications, GPS navigation, crop structure and pattern recognition systems, SLAM navigation, Gazebo 2D/3D simulation environment development, is highly desirable.

  • Demonstrated expertise in farm machinery system development, control systems, and/or industrial automation is highly desirable.

Work Location: Knoxville, Tennessee and Wooster, Ohio

Compensation and Benefits:

• UT market range: MR09

• Anticipated hiring range: $63,860

• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here

• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions:

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before December 19, 2025.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of 5 Professional References

About The College/Department/Division:

The Department of Plant Sciences, part of the Herbert College of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, addresses agricultural and environmental challenges through teaching, research, and Extension. We offer programs in plant sciences and landscape design, conduct research in crop production, genetics, plant physiology, and sustainable agriculture, and support growers and industry partners across Tennessee.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!