The Research Associate supports research activities at the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) through the execution of assigned research tasks, data collection, analysis, and documentation. This position contributes to ongoing research projects under the direction of faculty or senior research personnel and supports UTSI’s academic and research mission.

This position performs applied research activities in support of established research programs. The Research Associate assists with research design implementation, data analysis, documentation, and reporting. Work is conducted with general direction and established methodologies, requiring technical competence, analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a research team.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, or a related field.
• Relevant experience supporting research, technical, or analytical work in an academic, laboratory, or applied research environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a related technical or scientific field.
• Experience working in a research laboratory or computational research environment.
• Experience supporting externally funded research projects.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic research methods and data analysis techniques.
• Knowledge of standard research documentation and reporting practices.
• Skill in collecting, organizing, and analyzing research data.
• Skill in using standard software tools and research-related applications.
• Ability to follow established research protocols and procedures.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Ability to manage assigned tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to communicate effectively with faculty, researchers, and staff.

Work Location

• Location: Tullahoma, TN
• Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: MR11
• Anticipated hiring range: $80,000
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions:

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of 3 Professional References

About The Division:

The UT Space Institute is a vibrant research, education, and innovation center of excellence, located on a satellite campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT), in Tullahoma, Tennessee, adjacent to the epicenter of US aerospace ground testing at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC). UTSI is:

• Dedicated to advancing Tennessee’s leadership role in aerospace and defense and equipping graduates with expertise in related fields.
• Supporting AEDC in maintaining state of the art expertise in both technical and managerial ranks, providing critical educational support toward AEDC’s national mission for the Department of Defense, NASA, and the aerospace industry.
• Uniquely poised to meet the needs of the US Space Force by preparing a world-class workforce in East Tennessee and beyond, and advancing the technologies and systems necessary to protect US and allied interests in space.
• Playing a pivotal role in the land-grant mission of UT, ensuring the creation of economic growth and workforce development opportunities for underserved communities in middle and east Tennessee.

• Conduct assigned research tasks in support of faculty- or investigator-led research projects.
• Collect, analyze, and document research data using established methods and procedures.
• Assist with preparation of technical reports, summaries, and research documentation.
• Support laboratory, computational, or field-based research activities as applicable.
• Maintain accurate records related to research activities and results.
• Follow established research protocols, safety requirements, and institutional policies.
• Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and students to support project objectives.
• Assist with literature reviews, data validation, and research support activities as needed.