Postdoc in On-Farm Automation for Specialty Crops at Michigan State University Michigan State University in United States

Postdoc Position: Specialty Crop On-Farm Automation at Michigan State University.

This postdoctoral research associate opening is in Dr. Yuzhen Lu’s group (AgFood Sensing & Intelligence) in the Department of Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering. The project focuses on on-farm automation of specialty crops, especially in-orchard/postharvest automation and AI-enabled mechanization for labor-intensive production tasks.

The successful candidate will work on machine vision, artificial intelligence, automation technologies, robotics/mechatronics, and related engineering solutions for specialty crop production. Example tasks mentioned include mechanized harvesting, automated sorting, and vision-based crop management. The role also involves generating peer-reviewed publications, discussing design/prototyping/algorithm development/testing with Dr. Lu, and potentially contributing to grant proposals and teaching assistance.

Eligibility highlights: a PhD in Biosystems/Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation, or a closely related field; publication experience in machine/computer vision, mechatronics, or AI/robotics; strong programming skills in C++, Python, and/or Matlab; and excellent scientific writing and communication skills. Preferred experience includes engineering design, hardware prototyping, system integration, and real-time mechanical vision systems for special crop automation.

Funding and duration: the appointment is initially for 12 months, with possible extension depending on performance and funding. No stipend amount is listed.

Application: email [email protected] to apply or express interest. Review begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. A video pre-interview may be arranged for shortlisted candidates.