Research Assistant � Intelligent Satellite Systems and Space Traffic Management

• Conduct cutting-edge research in intelligent and Distributed Satellite Systems (DSS) and Space Traffic Management (STM);
• Full-time, 1-year fixed-term contract with possibility of extension; based at RMIT Bundoora campus;
• Contribute to the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data fusion for DSS and STM, with a significant industrial involvement;
• Remuneration at Academic Level A ($68,983 - $93,569) + 17% superannuation.

About the College

The School of Engineering comprises a diverse range of disciplines: Aerospace Engineering & Aviation; Chemical & Environmental Engineering; Civil & Infrastructure Engineering; Electrical & Biomedical Engineering; Electronic & Telecommunication Engineering; Manufacturing, Materials & Mechatronic Engineering; Mechanical & Automotive Engineering.

As a top 100 university in the world for engineering (2015 QS Rankings by Faculty; Engineering and Technology), RMIT Engineering provides students with work-relevant education programs, access to excellent research facilities and opportunities to engage in creative real-world project work through robust relations with local and international industry leaders.

RMIT Engineering�s education is based on innovation and creativity. Key discipline areas in the School of Engineering provide programs with flexible pathways to global careers or postgraduate research.

More details on the School of Engineering in this link.

The Cyber Physical and Autonomous Systems (CPAS) Group has several industry partners including Northrop Grumman, Thales, Leonardo, D-Orbit, BMT, Ericsson, Telstra, and others. The group regularly collaborates with the Australian and Victoria government agencies and is a member of the NASA Ames UTM and AAM working groups. Currently, the CPAS group is working with Northrop Grumman on the development of intelligent and distributed satellite systems, with a focus on C5ISR missions. Additionally, the group has recently developed various sensors and sensor networks for bushfire detection, defence, geophysics and smart agriculture applications and, following successful integration and flight trials on UAS platforms, there is a plan to target the evolution of these concepts for possible LEO satellite applications.

Position Summary

Support and undertake research activities contributing to the research effort of the Aerospace Engineering & Aviation Discipline, in the field of astrionics, space systems and other enabling technologies for highly automated & autonomous aerospace systems.

About You and the Role

As the Research Assistant, you will provide huge value to the research efforts of the School, specifically that of the Aerospace and Aviation Discipline, in the field of intelligent and Distributed Satellite Systems (DSS) and Space Traffic Management (STM). You will be responsible for conducting research on Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms and heuristics/metaheuristics for optimised decision making, data analytics and data fusion in uncertain environments.

You will contribute to the activities of the SmartSat AI4Space Research Network, helping the team in the development of a robust research agenda and strengthening the network of national and international collaborations in intelligent satellite systems. In particular, you will develop AI/ML software solutions that will enable intelligent behaviour and autonomous decision making/operation of DSS. In addition to the EO/C5ISR mission software, you will contribute to the development of novel systems for detection/characterization of threats from Resident Space Objects (RSO) and for STM.

You will prepare and submit competitive applications for research grants, drive, lead and co-author technical reports, provide research guidance to undergraduate and postgraduate students whilst working collaboratively with staff, industry and research organisations involved in the project.

You will have:

• Advanced knowledge and expertise in satellite systems design and operations; aerospace robotics and autonomous systems; aerospace human factors engineering; aerospace modelling and simulation; artificial intelligence; heuristics and metaheuristics; aerospace systems and software engineering
• Proficiency in programming languages/tools: C++, Python, Java, Matlab/Simulink, AGI STK
• Demonstrated an excellent research track record
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both as a member of a research team and independently when required, to meet project outcomes and milestones
• Ability to supervise higher degree by research students
• Ability to build effective networks with colleagues and generate research funding through effective liaison with industry and government
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills appropriate for interacting with research students, staff and external stakeholders, together with a strong commitment to teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Reporting line: Reports to Professor Roberto Sabatini � Chair, Cyber-Physical and Autonomous Systems Group; Deputy Director/Aerospace, Sir Lawrence Wackett Centre.

Qualifications

Mandatory: PhD (or near completion) in Aerospace Engineering, Avionics and Space Systems, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, or in a related subject in Aerospace Engineering domain.

Candidates with experience and in-depth knowledge in satellite systems and ground mission control systems, with high impact track record in AI and/or aerospace systems and software engineering will be highly regarded.

 Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children check. 

Please submit your updated resume and cover letter outlining your experience & achievements by clicking on the �Apply now� link. Please note that a separate response to Key Selection Criteria as stated on the Position Description is required. For further information about this position, please see Position Description below.

 Position Description Research Assistant DSS and STS Systems.pdf

For any enquiries, please contact Professor Roberto Sabatini (roberto.sabitini@rmit.edu.au)

Applications close on Sunday 6th of September 2020.

We are also happy to make adjustments to the recruitment process for your accessibility requirements. Please contact us via your preferred type of communication: email TalentSupport@rmit.edu.au or call Kassie on +61399252442 with your request(s).

RMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community. 

Please note that whilst we still accept applications from any persons interested in our roles, due to the impacts of COVID-19, we are currently prioritising applications from those with current working rights in Australia and who are not affected by travel restrictions. Please see the latest updates to Australia�s immigration and border arrangements during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/ 

Trans and Gender Diverse applicants

Inclusion is at the durrung (or heart) of who we are. We aim to create an environment where staff and students who identify as trans and gender diverse feel supported to succeed and belong.

We recognise the challenges faced by the trans and gender diverse community when applying for a new role.

At RMIT, we aim to support you from the start. Our Talent Acquisition team are active members of the RMIT Ally network.

For enquires or support through the application, recruitment and onboarding process, applicants who identify as trans or gender diverse are invited to contact Mat Lewis at mat.lewis@rmit.edu.au