Position Title: Research Assistant – Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)
Organization: Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) -Physics Department
Monterey, California
Contract Type: Performance-Based Support Services
Estimated Level of Effort: 850 labor hours
1. Position Overview
The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) is seeking a Research Assistant at the master’s level to support experimental research on Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). This role supports ongoing research initiatives under the Naval Research Program and contributes to advancing technologies that enhance U.S. naval capabilities and national security.
The selected candidate will work within the Physics Department conducting applied research, data analysis, and technical documentation focused on UUV design, performance, and field testing.
2. Key Responsibilities
Research & Analysis
- Conduct research on the feasibility, features, and performance of UUV systems
- Support experimental design and execution of UUV-related studies
- Analyze research data and identify performance trends and optimization opportunities
- Develop technical recommendations based on research findings
Design & Development
- Support development of optimized UUV designs, geometries, and operational protocols
- Utilize CAD tools and 3D printing for prototyping and testing
- Assist with system improvements and experimental configurations
Testing & Field Work
- Participate in laboratory and field testing of UUV systems
- Support data collection during controlled experiments and field trials
- Assist in refining testing methodologies and protocols
Documentation & Reporting
- Prepare research documentation, technical reports, and scientific papers
- Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results
- Contribute to publication-quality scientific writing
3. Deliverables
- Optimized UUV designs, geometries, and technical recommendations
- Research data sets and analysis
- Documented experimental protocols
- Technical reports and scientific papers
4. Minimum Technical Requirements
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- A master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- At least one (1) year of experience withcomputer-assisted design (CAD) and 3D printing
- At least one (1) year of experience with experimental research in a STEM field
- At least one (1) year of experience designing research within STEM projects
- At least one (1) year of experience writing scientific reports, articles, or papers
- At least six (6) months of laboratory experience working with UUVs
- At least six (6) months of field experience conducting UUV testing
5. Work Environment & Schedule
- On-site work required at NPS, Monterey, CA
- Standard working hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM (excluding federal holidays)
- Schedule flexibility may be approved by the COR based on project needs
6. Period of Performance
- Start Date: Upon contract award
- End Date: December 1, 2026
7. Work Location
- Naval Postgraduate School (NPS), Monterey, California
- Work conducted within the Advanced Warfighter Lab and associated facilities
8. Government-Furnished Support
The contractor will be provided with:
- Access to the Advanced Warfighter Lab at NPS
- Government computers, instruments, and research equipment
- CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) and design resources
- Existing technical data and research materials
All Government-furnished equipment and information shall be used for official Government purposes only.
9. Performance Expectations
- Deliver high-quality, technically sound research and recommendations
- Provide accurate and complete data analysis and documentation
- Meet biweekly review and inspection standards
- Maintain clear, professional communication with project stakeholders
10. Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)
- Experience with autonomous systems or marine robotics
- Familiarity with hydrodynamics and underwater propulsion systems
- Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python)
- Prior experience supporting DoD or Navy research programs
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