Postdoctoral Research Scholar

Company: North Carolina State University

Job Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Category: Plant and Soil Science

Type: Full-Time

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Position Number: 00111019

Essential Job Duties: The Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering (BAE) is jointly administered by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) and the College of Engineering at NC State University. The department actively contributes to the academic, research and extension missions of the University.

Duties and Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified Postdoctoral Research Scholar to join our cutting-edge research team in high-throughput plant phenotyping and crop modeling. The position will be mentored by Dr. Frank Bai at the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering and will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of experts in instrumentation, remote sensing, plant science, and agricultural engineering. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research aimed at advancing our understanding of plant phenotyping, water productivity, and sustainable agricultural practices.

• Responsible for the routine data collection and data processing using sensing platforms and portable instruments in the field and greenhouse environment
• Develop data processing pipeline for RGB/multispectral/thermal/hyperspectral images.
• Develop deep learning models for crop segmentation, object detection and localization, and classification
• Develop data-driven machine learning algorithms to predict phenotypic traits, such as LAI, leaf chlorophyll content, and leaf stomatal conductance
• Develop or apply process-based and physical-based models for modeling physiological traits
• Publish research findings in reputable, peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences and seminars
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students involved in related research projects.

You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

Departmental Required Skills:

• Proficiency in collecting and processing drone imagery data
• Expertise in machine learning algorithms (e.g., multispectral, hyperspectral imagers)
• Proficiency in coding in Python / MATLAB
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Experience in conducting field experiments and plant sample analysis is an advantage
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Demonstrated track record of scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals

Preferred Experience, Skills, Training/Education: n/a

Necessary Licenses or Certifications: NC drivers license is preferred but not required

AA/EOE: NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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Department: 118101 - Biological And Agricultural Engineering

Location: Raleigh, NC