Research Scientist/Engineer - Department of Mechanical, Materials and Aerospace Engineering

The Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources at West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for a Research Scientist/Engineer in the general areas of Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC), Orbital Dynamics, and Space Situational Awareness (SSA).

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct research in GNC algorithm development, orbital dynamics, and sensor fusion for space domain awareness and space traffic management.
• Develop, evaluate, and validate models for tracking, characterizing, and predicting behavior of resident space objects.
• Stay current with SSA, autonomous space systems, and multi-sensor tracking advancements.
• Identify research sponsors and assist with proposal development.
• Apply modern estimation, system ID, machine learning, and probabilistic modeling methods.
• Oversee research facilities, computational resources, and student researchers.
• Prepare and present research progress reports.
• Present and publish research findings.

An advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline is required. Experience in orbital mechanics, estimation theory, sensor fusion, autonomous spacecraft navigation, nonlinear dynamics, and machine learning applications to SSA are highly desirable. Familiarity with tracking and catalog maintenance methods, space object characterization, simulation environments (e.g., STK, GMAT, Basilisk), and programming languages/tools such as Python, MATLAB, and C++ are preferred.

To apply for this position, visit Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. Only candidates who submit complete documentation will be considered in the review process. For questions or additional information, contact Dr. Chris Griffin, View phone number on click.appcast.io, email: View email address on click.appcast.io. You may also visit the MAE website at

West Virginia University is the State's comprehensive Land Grant University with an enrollment of about 29,000 students and a R1 Carnegie Classification. Morgantown and its vicinity have a diverse population of about 62,000 residents and is ranked highly among the most livable small cities in the country. The community lies within a high technology corridor that also includes several federal research facilities, as well as industries active in shale gas operations. The city is readily accessible and within driving distance from Pittsburgh, PA and Washington, DC. For more information on WVU and Morgantown, see and

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.

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