Postdoctoral Researcher

Position Highlights

The Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to the development of remote sensing algorithms, simulation and modeling capabilities, and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) methods in support of the goals of the joint NASA/USGS Landsat mission. The successful candidate will conduct research using the Digital Imaging and Remote Sensing Image Generation (DIRSIG) model to simulate satellite observations, evaluate instrument performance, and develop science-driven analyses that help inform future sensor requirements. The position also provides opportunities to investigate how modern artificial intelligence and scientific machine learning techniques can enhance physics-based simulation, accelerate algorithm development, and enable new remote sensing science applications. This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of remote sensing physics, radiative transfer modeling, computational imaging, satellite sensor design, and artificial intelligence while collaborating with leading researchers in academia and government.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Independently conducts research including, but not limited to, constructing hypotheses, design and planning of research studies, data management, model development, conducting experiments or assessments, analysis and interpretation of results, and evaluation of research techniques
• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with institutional, sponsor, and regulatory requirements
• Disseminates and publishes research results in peer-reviewed journals, reports, meetings, workshops, and conferences
• Assists in the writing of grant proposals
• May assist in teaching classes
• May mentor and assist undergraduate and/or graduate students
• May assist in managing research laboratories
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute research
• Knowledge of applicable research methods and analytical procedures
• Knowledge of research compliance and ethics
• Knowledge of publishing/reporting requirements
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• Demonstrated potential for original or collaborative scholarship
• Scientific writing skills demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to acquire accurate, reproducible data
• Critical eye towards consistency, reproducibility, and the scientific method in general
• Excellent project and time management skills
• Strong interpersonal and mentoring skills
• Advocate for safety and ethics in the workplace
• Ability to communicate findings and effectively work with sponsors and stakeholders

Minimum Education & Experience

Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a related field

Job Level Overview N/A FLSA Category Exempt Work Location On Campus Compensation $35,000.00 - $90,000.00 Annual

Additional Details

In compliance with NYS's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is listed above.

Rochester Institute of Technology considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

The hiring process for this position may require a criminal background check and/or motor vehicle records check. Any verbal or written offer made is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by Human Resources.

RIT provides equal opportunity to all qualified individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in its hiring, admissions, educational programs and activities.

RIT provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.

If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources office at or email your request to

Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Founded in 1829, Rochester Institute of Technology has a long-standing history of innovation that blends the arts, technology, and experiential learning.

In addition to its main campus in Rochester, New York, RIT maintains a strong international presence with over 100 active global partnerships and international campuses in Croatia, Dubai, and Kosovo.

As of Fall 2024, total student enrollment across all campuses exceeded 21,000.

Nationally recognized for its co-op and internship programs, RIT is supported by more than 4,000 dedicated faculty and staff members committed to student success.

Its 1,300-acre suburban campus features cutting-edge facilities that reflect RIT's strengths in applied research, design, and workforce development.