Researcher

The Ohio State University • Columbus, OH

21h

About The Position

The Ohio State University, College of Engineering, Department of Integrated and Systems Engineering seeks a Researcher (Research Engineer) to serve in a senior-level capacity within the College. This is a Specialized Track position in which work is accomplished through both independent contributions and active participation on multidisciplinary project teams. The successful candidate will apply industry-informed expertise and demonstrate a strong command of cognitive systems engineering and modern systems safety principles. The role requires the ability to independently complete research and routine assignments while also leading and contributing to complex, large-scope projects that support the Department’s research and applied engineering objectives. Lead research focused on resilience engineering and safety management to support the design of relevant undergraduate and graduate coursework in cognitive systems engineering and modern systems safety. Utilize research to develop and design course content, instructional materials, and experiential learning activities that reflect current research and industry practice. Support existing CSEL staff in conducting system-focused operational safety assessments. This includes assisting with the evaluation of complex systems, identifying potential hazards, and assessing risk mitigation strategies. Design, develop, and deliver specialized, industry-specific training focused on the investigation of close calls, accidents, and other operational events. Create proposals for new lab projects (both grants and contracts). Mentor lab students and other staff. Attend and speak at national and international conferences to represent the lab. Perform other duties as assigned to support organizational goals and evolving program needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s and 5 years of Experience or Master’s And 3 years of Experience
• Engineering

Nice To Haves

• Master’s preferred and 5 years of experience
• Engineering

Responsibilities

• Lead research focused on resilience engineering and safety management to support the design of relevant undergraduate and graduate coursework in cognitive systems engineering and modern systems safety. Utilize research to develop and design course content, instructional materials, and experiential learning activities that reflect current research and industry practice. The coursework is designed to build foundational knowledge, analytical skills, and practical competencies for students entering complex, safety-critical domains. Contribute to lab administration activities and create proposals for new lab projects (both grants and contracts).
• Support existing CSEL staff in conducting system-focused operational safety assessments. This includes assisting with the evaluation of complex systems, identifying potential hazards, and assessing risk mitigation strategies. The goal is to enhance overall operational safety while ensuring consistency with established standards and best practices. Mentor lab students and other staff. Attend and speak at national and international conferences to represent the lab
• Design, develop, and deliver specialized, industry-specific training focused on the investigation of close calls, accidents, and other operational events. This training equips participants with practical methodologies for data collection, root cause analysis, and documentation of findings. The program emphasizes consistent investigative practices that support learning, prevention, and continuous improvement in operational safety.
• Lead CSEL efforts to leverage data analytics tools to improve safety in high-risk and high-consequence work environments. This includes integrating data from multiple sources to identify trends, precursors, and systemic risks that may contribute to adverse events. Insights derived from these analyses are used to inform proactive safety interventions, support decision-making, and enhance overall risk management strategies.
• Guide and support CSEL’s efforts to develop and sustain industrial partnerships and sponsorships by identifying strategic collaboration opportunities, engaging industry stakeholders, and aligning partnerships with CSEL’s mission and research priorities.
• Create flexible frameworks to support the development of multi-year quality and safety maturation plans for CSEL partners.

Benefits

• Eligible Ohio State employees receive comprehensive benefits packages, including medical, dental and vision insurance, tuition assistance for employees and their dependents, and state or alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level