What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate position at Wesleyan University?
The Soft Robots Lab in the Mathematics and Computer Science Department at Wesleyan University seeks a Research Associate for a one-year position that is potentially renewable for a second year.
The Research Associate will work with Dr. Sonia Roberts (at Wesleyan University) and Dr. Tonia Hsieh (at Temple University, remotely) on an NSF-funded project using a jumping robot to determine how morphological variations in feet can lead to different types of force production in complex, flowing ground. Specifically, we will investigate the evolutionary drivers that may have led to diversification and conservation of toe morphologies in sand specialist lizards.
Responsibilities include :
- Updating an existing robot to use open-source design files
- Writing documentation for the robot, including build instructions, that is oriented towards non-engineering (e.g., Biology) undergraduate students
- Supervising undergraduate students
- Manuscript preparation and editing
- Conference presentations
- Assisting with undergraduate Robotics course
- Other duties as assigned
This is an on-campus position.
This position is particularly well suited for :
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :
MS / MA in Engineering or related field.
Familiarity with Physics at a beginner undergraduate level (e.g., how to set up a block diagram)
Familiarity with programming in an imperative language like Python, C, or Matlab (not R)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :
PhD in Biology, Biomechanics, Paleobiology, Geoscience, Granular Media Physics, or related field
Experience with electronics and microcontrollers such as Arduinos
Experience with mechanical design, e.g. in programs like SolidWorks, Fusion360, OnShape
Experience with simulation work in programs like OpenSim, GaitSim
Experience with simulation work in LIGGGHTS
Demonstrated commitment to work within a diverse environment and interact openly with individuals of different backgrounds, especially undergraduates
Position is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
As part of your application, please include a cover letter and resume / CV .
Compensation : $26.05 / hr. - $30.51 / hr.
Work Location : On Campus
All offers to external applicants are contingent on the candidate's completion of a pre-employment background check screening to the satisfaction of Wesleyan University.
Wesleyan University, located in Middletown, Connecticut, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability, political belief, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or non-position-related criminal record. We welcome applications from women and historically underrepresented minority groups. Inquiries regarding Title IX, Section 504 or any other non-discrimination policies should be directed to Vice President for Equity and Inclusion, Title IX and ADA / 504 Coordinator.
Wesleyan University complies with the Clery Act and maintains records of campus crime statistics and security policies. Copies of Wesleyan University's Clery Act Report are available on request and online at https : / / www.wesleyan.edu / publicsafety / clery.html.
Experience is taken into consideration in the determination of salary offers. For more information visit https : / / www.wesleyan.edu / hr / handbook / compensation-practices / index.html
Wesleyan offers a broad range of employee benefits and development opportunities, including comprehensive group insurance plans, wellness programs and incentives, generous paid time off and retirement plans, flexible work schedules, employee and dependent tuition programs for those who qualify.
Detailed information on the benefits of working at Wesleyan is located at : https : / / wesleyan.edu / hr / careers / prospective-resources.html.
Salary : $26 - $31
