Assistant Professor Robotics, Sensors, and Manufacturing

Company: University of Minnesota
Location: Saint Paul
Posted on: January 23, 2023

Job Description:

Apply for JobJob ID352073
LocationTwin Cities
Job FamilyAcademic
Full/Part TimeFull-Time
Regular/TemporaryRegular
Job Code9403
Employee ClassInstr Fac/TC and Coord Cmp
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The Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering seeks candidates for a tenure-track
academic position at the assistant professor level with 50% teaching and 50% research responsibilities
to develop a collaborative, internationally recognized research program in the areas of sensing and
robotics in sustainable agriculture and environmental management. This academic position is under the
auspices of the University of Minnesota MnDRIVE initiative for Robotics, Sensing, and Advanced
Manufacturing. MnDRIVE (Minnesota's Discovery, Research, and InnoVation Economy) is a partnership
between the University of Minnesota and the State of Minnesota that aligns areas of research strength
with the state's key and emerging industries to address grand challenges of Robotics, Global Food,
Environment, Brain Conditions, and Cancer Clinical Trials. The University of Minnesota's MnDRIVE
initiative on Robotics, Sensors, and Manufacturing (mndrive.umn.edu/robotics) envisions the University
of Minnesota playing an integral part in helping the state emerge as a robotics and automation leader,
and as a contributor to the renaissance of domestic manufacturing by providing critical innovations,
education, and training in pertinent disciplines. To further enhance Minnesota's competitiveness at this
critical time, the University of Minnesota is proposing to augment its existing strengths in teaching and
research in areas relevant to robotics, sensors, and manufacturing.

The successful candidate is expected to develop a highly collaborative research program focusing on
robotic and sensor/sensing systems with applications in environmental management and sustainable
agriculture that align with the University of Minnesota Robotics Institute. Applicants must have an
excellent record of accomplishment in an academic or industrial setting, and possess the potential to be
an internationally-recognized leader in teaching and research.Research: The candidate is expected to develop an internationally recognized research program with a
focus on sensing and robotics in sustainable agriculture and environmental management. Emphasis
areas in research might include: the design of systems for dynamic or spatial measurement of water
quality variables in agricultural run-off, streams and lakes, UAVs for inspection of damage after
significant flooding events, design and management of water release systems in agricultural ditches and
constructed wetlands, monitoring of soil moisture and water table depth, temperature and snow depth
and frost depth, direct measurement of evapotranspiration, measurement of plant characteristics
including location, species, canopy cover, and height, identification of areas with invasive species and
noxious weeds, habitat assessment and distribution of woody debris in stream channels, and
measurement of greenhouse gas emissions. The successful candidate will be expected to develop
research in areas that supports Minnesota agriculture and natural resources. Collaborative research
with various colleges, departments, and centers across the University including College of Food,
Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (i.e. Soil, Water, and Climate, Agronomy, Plant Pathology,
and Animal Science) College of Biological Sciences (i.e. Ecology), the College of Science and Engineering
(CSE), and the University of Minnesota Robotics Institute is highly encouraged.

Teaching: The teaching component of this position will include teaching and developing basic and
applied engineering courses, sustainable agriculture and/or resource management within the
department (UG and GRAD) and their applications. Teaching may include lecture/lab, e-based learning,
or other modes of instruction and interaction with students. Involvement in University Robotics team
activities is encouraged. A demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate and/or graduate
teaching and advising is essential. This position is also expected to strive for excellence in academic
advising for undergraduate and graduate students as a vital component of student development.

Qualifications


Required:

• Ph.D. in an engineering or science discipline, with applications to environmental, agricultural, or
• biological systems
• Evidence of potential to develop a successful independent research program
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching
• Demonstrated effective written communication skillsPreferred:
  • Research or industrial experience in aerial or terrestrial sensing or robotics with an interest in
  • agricultural and/or environmental applications
  • Demonstrated and relevant publication record or industrial experience
  • Experience in effective teaching including active learning and course development
  • Evidence of collaborative research
  • Strong communication skills
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusivity in an academic or professional setting
  • and commitment to supporting the University's goal of creating a positive and inclusive campus
  • climate by advancing diversity, equity, and inclusivity
    About the Department
    
    
    The Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering (bbe.umn.edu) is an internationally renowned academic unit with the core mission of sustainable use renewable agricultural and natural resources, and protection and enhance of the environment.
    Benefits
    
    
    Working at the UniversityAt the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
    • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
    • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
    • Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
    • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
    • University HSA contributions
    • Disability and employer-paid life insurance
    • Employee wellbeing program
    • Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
    • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
    • Financial counseling services
    • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no costPlease visit the for more information regarding benefits.
      How To Apply
      
      
      Applications must be submitted online at (search for Job Opening ID 352073. Candidates should include all of the required application materials combined into one single PDF document. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Required application materials:
      A cover letter clearly indicating how the applicant addresses the required and preferred qualifications Curriculum Vitae 1 - 2 page Research Statement 1 -2 page Teaching Statement [both research and teaching statements should highlight accomplishments, experience and interests] Names, addresses and email contact information for three (3) professional references that will be contacted if you are deemed a final candidate Diversity Statement* (please see instructions below)*Instructions for Diversity Statement (include with application materials)*Applicants are required to submit a diversity statement for this position. CFANS values and is actively invested in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout all of our academic programs. Please review the CFANS and the for the college.
      Please provide a diversity statement that details your professional experiences in DEI. Experiences may include:

      Working with diverse communities or local organizations Embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into the curriculum Embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into your research Your own educational experiences, such as courses or workshops you have participated in and how you anticipate incorporating what you have learned in your future work For questions regarding this position, please contact Professor Roger Ruan, ruanx001@umn.eduThis position will remain open until filled. Screening of applications will begin on February 1, 2023.To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).
      Diversity
      
      
      The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.
      Employment Requirements
      
      
      Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
      
      Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University's Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:
      About the U of M
      
      
      The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
      

Keywords: University of Minnesota, St. Paul , Assistant Professor Robotics, Sensors, and Manufacturing, Education / Teaching , Saint Paul, Minnesota