Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world's most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn't imagine the future, we invent it. If you're passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here! Innovation. Interdisciplinary collaboration. Complex problem solving. In Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Mechanical Engineering, faculty members, researchers, and students are revolutionizing focus areas in advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, computational engineering, energy and the environment, product design, and robotics. In addition, they are using their expertise in interdisciplinary research centers across the university. Carnegie Mellon University's department of Mechanical Engineering is searching for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join their team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment. In this role, you will lead and participate in research that leverages artificial intelligence and large language models to solve fundamental problems in autonomous driving, robotics, verification and validation, and safety problems related to autonomies. You will develop novel methodologies that advance the state-of-the-art in autonomous vehicle technology while ensuring research outcomes are reproducible, well-documented, and aligned with safety-critical system requirements and such other tasks that are assigned to you. **Core Responsibilities:** + Support PhD students on their research methodologies, experimental designs, and theoretical approach. Participate actively in research meetings, offer constructive suggestions for overcoming technical challenges. + Lead and manage independent research projects by identifying critical gaps in the current understanding of autonomous vehicle safety and AI-driven verification methods. Develop comprehensive research plans that outline objectives, methodologies, timelines, and resource requirements. Coordinate with interdisciplinary team members. + Participate in traffic scenario generation project and pedestrian modeling project. Develop sophisticated AI-driven algorithms that create realistic, safety-critical test scenarios for autonomous vehicle validation. Design and implement machine learning models that capture the complexity and variability of real-world traffic situations, including unusual pedestrian behaviors, edge cases, and multi-agent interactions in urban environments. + Conduct research on how to comprehensively establish safety and risk assessment for autonomous vehicle systems by identifying potential failure modes, analyzing system vulnerabilities, and developing mitigation strategies that enhance overall system robustness + Other duties as assigned. Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work. **Qualifications:** + Doctorate degree + Research experience in traffic modeling, autonomous driving, scenario generation, andAI are preferred. + A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered. **Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.** **Benefits eligible ( employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance ( **as well as a generous retirement savings program ( with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits ( , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off ( and observed holidays ( , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.** **Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team ( to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access ( **,** **and much more!** **For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page ( **.** **At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.** **Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!** **Location** Pittsburgh, PA **Job Function** Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & Fellows **Position Type** Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term) **Full Time/Part time** Full time **Pay Basis** Salary **More Information:** + Please visit **"Why Carnegie Mellon ( "** to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. + Click here ( to view a listing of employee benefits + **Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity** **Employer/Disability/Veteran** . + Statement of Assurance ( Interested in a career with Carnegie Mellon University but not finding anything that currently aligns with your interests, background, or experience? Learn how to sign up for Job Alerts ( through your candidate profile. **If your heart is in your work, come work with us.** Carnegie Mellon University isn't just one of the world's most renowned educational institutions - it's also a hotspot for some of the most talented doers, dreamers, and difference-makers on the planet. When you join our staff, you'll become an important part of our mission to create a healthier, safer, and more just life for all. No matter what your role or location, you'll connect and collaborate with dedicated, passionate colleagues - and you'll have the satisfaction of delivering work that truly matters. We cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute and achieve. In addition to competitive benefits and a robust support network, you'll have access to many tools and resources to sharpen your abilities and professional skills, as well as opportunities to engage and share perspectives with a dynamic and inspiring community of uniquely talented staff, faculty, students, and alumni. The future is awaiting your expertise and intellect. Come join the architects of what's next. Apply now. Learn more about Student Employment ( . Please see Faculty Careers. ( For technical assistance, email HR Services ([email protected]) or call 412-268-4600. If you are an individual with a disability and you require assistance with the job application process, please email Equal Opportunity Services ([email protected]) or call 412-268-3930. Prospective Employee Disclosures (