Research Faculty; PREP

Overview

PREP Research Associate 2 This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. The PREP program enables collaboration with researchers at academic institutions on projects of mutual interest. Staff from diverse backgrounds work on scientific research in many areas and this position will perform technical work that underpins collaborative research.

Research

Title:

Emergency Response Robot Standards Development

Job Description: The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is leading an international initiative to develop standardized test methods for ground-based robotic systems and small unmanned aircraft systems. This work is carried out through the ASTM International Standards Committee on Homeland Security Applications -- Response Robots (ASTM E54.09). NIST invites collaboration on research and development efforts to advance standardized testing for robotic systems.

The scope includes:

• Designing test apparatuses, performance metrics, and data collection tools to evaluate system capabilities and remote operator proficiency.
• Validating testing protocols, modeling and simulation tools, and reference materials.
• Analyzing experimental data to establish average and best-in-class performance benchmarks, enabling responders to assess and compare their systems using standardized metrics.
• Analyze sensor data and draw suitable conclusions for improving the robot s efficiency.
• Conduct research to improve and innovate robotic technologies, including AI integration, sensor development, and automation processes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate robotics solutions into existing systems and workflows.
• Test, evaluate, and troubleshoot robotic systems to ensure optimal performance and compliance with industry standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation of designs, processes, and results, and prepare technical reports for stakeholders.
• Provide technical support and guidance to other engineers and stakeholders involved in robotics projects.

Collaborative work will take place at NIST facilities and at designated field exercises or data collection events. Testing will involve representative robotic systems to assess the relevance and effectiveness of the test methods for public safety applications.

• Work independently and communicate goals, needs, and project updates clearly.
• Document work thoroughly and be prepared to present findings.
• Conduct experiments, analyze data, and report/document results through technical publications.
• Support the development of standardized testing methods and related deliverables.
• Maintain documentation of designs, processes, and results; prepare technical reports for stakeholders.
• Provide technical support and guidance to other engineers and stakeholders involved in robotics projects.

Required experience:

• Must be a US Citizen.
• Must have or be able to obtain a Part 107 remote pilot certificate.
• Strong background in engineering or engineering technology or related field.
• Strong 3-D modeling experience in Sketch Up or similar software.
• Programming in Python, C++, or equivalent.

Preferred experience:

• Strong communication and technical writing skills.
• Working knowledge of video editing software; e.g., Adobe Premiere.
• Strong working knowledge of all Microsoft Office products (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong working knowledge of InDesign.

Please upload the following with your application:

CV/Resume. Limit CV to 3 pages and include a valid email address for contact. Do not include telephone numbers, home addresses, or photos on the resume.

EEO and Disclosures

Privacy Act Statement, Authority, Purpose, Routine Uses, and Disclosure information apply as described by NIST policies. This posting also includes standard equal opportunity information and diversity and inclusion statements as applicable.

To apply for this position, visit the application site. (

Note:

links and external references are not included in this refined version.)