The Research Consultant is a high-level position responsible for independently leading the design, development, testing and scientific publishing of a cutting-edge robotic inventory system. Primarily, the incumbent will be responsible for leading 1) development of complex computer programs with expert-level Python programming, integrate sensors, robots and GPS-based navigation for automatically counting trees, measuring tree structures, and identifying tree locations; 2) planning and executing laboratory, virtual environment, and field experiments to validate and improve system accuracy, and writing test reports; and 3) evaluation of experimental successes and failures, troubleshooting, and making appropriate course corrections to achieve project success within the project timeline. The incumbent will serve as the primary author on multiple scientific manuscripts. The Research Consultant is responsible for the success of this project.
Required Qualifications
• Master’s degree – Computer Information Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Programming
• At least three years of experience providing design, development, methods, and data analysis for research projects as a scientist or research analyst.
• At least two years providing consultative services for research projects as a scientist or research analyst.
• At least three years of experience programming with Python.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.
Preferred Qualifications
• Four or more years participating in the design, development, methods, and data analysis of research projects.
• Three or more years providing consultative services for research projects.
• Four or more years of experience programming in Python.
Work Location
- Location: Office space is available in Knoxville, TN and Wooster, OH. Remote employment will be considered.
- Onsite, Hybrid, or Remote: Onsite, Remote employment will be considered
Compensation and Benefits
- UT market range: MR 13
- Anticipated hiring range:
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Application Instructions
To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before July 16, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is found.
About The College/Department/Division
The Department of Plant Sciences, part of the Herbert College of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, addresses agricultural and environmental challenges through teaching, research, and Extension. We offer programs in plant sciences and landscape design, conduct research in crop production, genetics, plant physiology, and sustainable agriculture, and support growers and industry partners across Tennessee.
