The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to help shape the future of oceanographic remote sensing and autonomous navigation. This position focuses on developing and deploying cutting-edge technologies, including lidar and other  geospatial sensors for Uncrewed aerial/underwater Systems (UxS, with an emphasis on UAS), with applications in alternative navigation, environmental monitoring, and AI-driven applications such as pathfinding and underwater feature detections.

About Us

The Ocean Sciences Division conducts basic and applied research to advance science and technologies related to the maritime environments. Our team integrates expertise in laser remote sensing, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence to develop innovative solutions for oceanographic and littoral sensing.

Research Focus

This position will primarily focus on:

• Lidar for UAS Navigation and Ocean Sensing: Advancing compact lidar systems for aerial mapping, environmental monitoring, and real-time situational awareness.
• AI/ML for Autonomous Pathfinding and feature detection: Developing compact hardware (quantum and/or classical) and machine learning algorithms with applications in alternative (to GPS/GNSS) navigation, including the use of geophysical fields, environmental monitoring, optical information such as astrometric data.
• Multi-Sensor Fusion: Integrating lidar with other remote sensing techniques for enhanced autonomy and environmental analysis.
• Field Testing and Deployment: Conducting laboratory experiments and field campaigns to validate novel approaches or test new prototypes.

Desired Qualifications

• Ph.D. (or soon to be completed) in physics, engineering, oceanography, computer science, or a related field.
• The system's complexity dictates the mandatory requirement, which is that the candidate is ready to learn about new science and technology.
• Interest in field experiments and working with autonomous systems is also essential.
• Experience with lidar, remote sensing, or optical instrumentation is desirable but not mandatory.
• Knowledge of AI/ML applications in robotics, navigation, or signal processing is a plus.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to next-generation sensing and navigation technologies while working with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921889022000343

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/11/9/3921

key words

UAS; Lidar; AI Navigation; Optics; Applied mathematics; Autonomous Systems; Ocean Sensing

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.