Senior Research Associate

University of Colorado Boulder • Boulder, CO

74d • $70,000 - $105,000

About The Position

The Senior Research Associate will lead advanced research initiatives focused on complex radio frequency (RF) systems and environments, setting strategic directions that leverage both in-situ and laboratory RF measurement methods and data. This role involves close collaboration with NIST internal and external stakeholders to drive the broad application of innovative methods in RF spectrum systems design, testing, analysis, and operations. The successful candidate will develop research plans grounded in metrology principles and electromagnetic compatibility, propose and analyze measurement techniques for challenging RF environments-including interference analysis, dynamic spectrum sharing, and propagation. Responsibilities also include disseminating research findings through publications, presentations, and educational formats, and fostering relationships with academic institutions. This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• Fifteen (15) or more years of relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

• Strong background in radio frequency engineering and electromagnetic compatibility measurements as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, patents, or standards engagements.
• Experience testing and analyzing systems with a wide range of spectrum-dependencies, such as mobile and cellular communications; wireless and emergency response applications; positioning and navigation, telemetry, and radar systems.
• Ability to identify and lead research directions in spectrum science applications.
• Demonstrated ability to lead applied research teams.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop research plans in spectrum science aligned with metrology principles and electromagnetic compatibility fundamentals.
• Propose measurement techniques and analyze complex RF environment interactions, including interference analysis, dynamic spectrum sharing, and radio frequency propagation.
• Present technical plans and findings to the spectrum science stakeholder community, including academic, industry, and government entities.
• Investigate the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) within spectrum science.
• Foster relationships with academic institutions.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off.
• Tuition assistance for you and your dependents.
• ECO Pass for local transit.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree