Job Overview

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at University of Cincinnati is seeking an exceptional candidate for a postdoctoral fellow position in the field of Astrodynamics and Space Robotics. The successful candidate will work on cutting-edge research in the areas of space robotics, autonomous spacecraft operations, satellite on-orbit servicing, and orbital debris removal. This position involves collaborating with faculty, graduate students, and external research partners, with opportunities to publish research and present findings in scientific journals and major conferences. Since the position is funded by research a grant from the US Space Force, only US citizens are eligible for the position. 

Essential Functions

• Conduct advanced research on topics related to space robotics and astrodynamics, including autonomous robotic systems for In-space and On-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM and OSAM) and space logistics.
• Develop and implement control algorithms for distributed multi-agent system operations and spacecraft-based robotic manipulation.
• Perform research on spacecraft dynamics and control, including trajectory planning, spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and proximity operations.
• Utilize physics-based robotic simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, Matlab/Simscope) and space mission analysis software (e.g., GMAT, STK) for simulating and studying spacecraft systems operations.
• Utilize hardware-in-the-loop simulation facilities to support experimental investigation of spacecraft and robotic systems operations.
• Prepare and publish high-quality research papers in peer-reviewed journals and present at professional conferences.
• Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students working on space robotics.

Minimum Requirements

PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Computer Science with a focus on dynamics and control.

Additional Qualifications Considered

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Computer Science with a focus on space robotics research.
• Experience with autonomous robotics for space exploration or satellite servicing missions.
• Experience with machine learning techniques for robotic decision-making and intelligent control for tasks with high uncertainties.
• Experience with research on multi-agent collaboration and decentralized control.
• Familiar with space mission design and analysis, particularly in rendezvous, proximity and docking operations.
• Knowledge of space hardware and systems, including satellite platforms, robotic arms, sensors, and actuators for space applications.
• Strong communication and writing skills, with the ability to present complex research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB for spacecraft modeling and simulation.
• Experience with simulation environments and tools used in space research (e.g., GMAT, STK, Gazebo, ROS).
• Experience with development or utilization of hardware-in-the-loop simulation-based test facilities to support spacecraft and/or robotics research.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals and conferences in the field of astrodynamics and/or space robotics.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Access to state-of-the-art spacecraft and robotics research facilities.
• Opportunities for professional development, including participation in national and international conferences.