Research Associate

Research Associate Position at University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is an 1890 Land-Grant HBCU with a diverse student population, competitive degree offerings and stellar faculty. For more than 140 years, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has worked to create an environment that inculcates learning, growth and productivity while affording a basic need to its students – a chance to advance.

The 15:1 student to teacher ratio makes it possible to maintain a learning environment with close interaction between students and faculty while challenging curricula encourage our students to seek and fulfill their potential. You can excel in your chosen field of study through a curriculum of Certificate and Associates degree programs, more than thirty Undergraduate programs, Master's degree programs and a Doctorate program in Aquaculture/Fisheries. You can also develop workplace readiness through internships, co-ops and fellowships in the U.S. and abroad.

Out-of-class experiences and student involvement include more than 90 student organizations, an internationally renowned Vesper Choir, Marching Band, Concert Bands, Wind Symphony, nationally recognized debate team, award-winning theater department and accomplished athletic program.

Though the main campus is in Pine Bluff, its reach is worldwide. UAPB has an extended campus in North Little Rock and offers as well as online courses. With the addition of the Arkansas Research and Education Optical Network (ARE-ON), students can engage in information exchange with others anywhere in the world. There are also Research and Extension offices in Lonoke, Newport and Lake Village and collaborations with other colleges and universities in the State through the National Science Foundation funded STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Academy.

As the second oldest land-grant institution in the state of Arkansas, the mission of this No Excuse University remains the same – to provide a high quality, affordable education with a personal touch. We invite you to Become a Part of the Pride at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

Summary of Job Duties

Location: UAPB Fish Station and Research Facilities (Pine Bluff, Lonoke, and Eudora)Reports To: Director, Center of Excellence, Dept. of Aquaculture and Fisheries

The Research Associate will oversee computer networking, data connectivity, and system performance across UAPB's aquaculture research facilities located in Pine Bluff, Lonoke, and Eudora. This position combines advanced IT management with artificial intelligence applications in aquaculture research. The specialist will play a key role in building and maintaining computing infrastructure, including a high-performance supercomputer, and developing AI-driven monitoring systems for aquatic species. The successful candidate will support ongoing AI-based projects focused on analyzing shrimp and fish feeding behavior, growth metrics (length, weight), health assessment, and environmental conditions, contributing directly to precision aquaculture initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• IT Infrastructure and Networking
• Manage and maintain network systems, servers, and computer workstations across UAPB, Lonoke, and Eudora facilities
• Ensure seamless connectivity between research laboratories, sensors, and field monitoring stations
• Troubleshoot software, hardware, and networking issues to maintain system reliability
• Coordinate data flow between field stations and the main research hub for real-time monitoring and analysis
• AI Research and Development
• Collaborate with faculty and research teams to design and deploy AI-based monitoring systems for shrimp and fish culture
• Develop machine learning models for automated detection of feeding behavior, growth metrics (size, length, weight), and health indicators using imaging and sensor data
• Support AI-assisted environmental monitoring and predictive modeling for aquaculture systems
• Manage large datasets and assist in developing cloud and local data storage frameworks
• High-Performance Computing
• Lead the assembly, configuration, and maintenance of a high-performance computing (HPC) system or supercomputer for AI research applications
• Optimize computational workflows for data-intensive aquaculture projects
• Ensure integration of computing resources across all UAPB aquaculture facilities for collaborative AI research
• Facility and Research Support
• Maintain IT connectivity and digital infrastructure for research stations at Lonoke, Eudora, and UAPB
• Provide technical support for smart sensors, monitoring cameras, and laboratory equipment
• Assist researchers and students with data access, backup, and computational analysis
• Support workshops, training, and outreach programs related to AI and aquaculture technology

Skills and Competencies

Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting abilities Ability to manage IT systems across multiple research facilities Excellent communication and teamwork skills Proficiency in managing large datasets and computational workflows Commitment to innovation in applying AI to aquaculture systems

Qualifications

BS or MS in Information Technology, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or related field Proven experience with networking systems, computer maintenance, and IT troubleshooting Knowledge of Python, R, MATLAB, or other programming languages used in AI research Familiarity with Linux environments and server management

Additional Information

Preferred Qualifications Master's degree or equivalent experience in AI, Computational Biology, or a related discipline Experience with machine learning, image processing, or computer vision systems Background in aquaculture, fisheries, or environmental data analysis Experience building or maintaining high-performance computing systems or clusters

Salary Information

$55,000 - $63,541

Required Documents to Apply

Letters of Recommendation, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume, Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)

Special Instructions to Applicants (Please upload all required documents in the "Resume" attachment section of your application to be considered for this position):

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

Pre-employment Screening Requirements

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff may conduct pre-employment background checks on certain positions for applicants being considered for employment. The background checks may include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal background check or arrest pending adjudication information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absences of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background check information will be used in a consistent, non-discriminatory manner consistent with the state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual preference, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Benefits Eligible

Yes