Apply at https://recruit.uwo.caSearch for job ID 44650Open until October 2, 2026Classification & Regular Hours
Hours per Week: 35
Salary Grade: 14
The base salary will be $67,680 - $96,590 per annum. Starting salary will be aligned with the successful candidate’s experience, skills, and demonstrated qualifications.
Please note, this is a 10-month temporary full-time contract opportunity that is wholly grant funded.
Secondments are Welcome
Click here for more details on secondment opportunities.
About Western
Since 1878, Western University has been committed to serving our communities through the pursuit of academic excellence and by providing students, faculty, and community members with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social, and cultural growth. We seek excellent students, faculty, and staff to join us in what has become known as the "Western Experience" - an opportunity to contribute to a better world through the development of new knowledge, new abilities, new connections, and new ways to make a difference.
About Us
The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s mission is to be a cornerstone of society’s development through physics and astronomy education of students, the creation and dissemination of knowledge, innovative partnerships with industry, government, and other educational institutions in the global community.
The mission of Dr. Brown’s research related to space surveillance is monitoring of near-Earth space for artificial objects, including active satellites and space debris as part of broader situational awareness of the space environment using optical cameras. The new (Sep 2026) DRDC contract builds on an earlier R&D contract from DRDC which developed the first generation of the Luciole ground-based satellite tracking network. Presently this network consists of over 40 individual cameras deployed across four sites in Canada. This research addresses a critical sovereignty gap in Canada’s space monitoring capabilities. The Luciole network provides the only national data source of ground-based operational sensors for detection and tracking of Low Earth Orbiting Satellites transiting Canada.
Responsibilities
The Research Programmer/Analyst will work in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator to define, develop, test, analyze, and maintain custom research software and computational systems that support a multi-year surveillance of space program with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC). The role is responsible for developing Python-based image processing, computer vision, machine learning, and data-pipeline solutions, maintaining Linux-based research computing environments, and providing ongoing support through troubleshooting, optimization, and software enhancements. In addition, the role supports research teams and student contributors through technical guidance and documentation, collaborates with Department of National Defence (DND) on contractual deliverables, and applies current best practices to ensure that research software is robust, reproducible, and aligned with funded DND research objectives.
Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering
- Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related field, ideally with a focus or specialization in Machine Learning or Computer Vision, preferred
Experience:
- 3 years of experience developing, testing, and maintaining software in an academic, research or technical environment
- Experience in machine learning, computer vision and AI-related techniques
- Experience with Python programming and the use of Github
- Experience working in Linux-based computing environments would be an asset
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- In-depth knowledge of programming languages including Python
- Ability to build and maintain machine learning models and data-processing pipelines
- Familiarity with PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV, or other libraries for computer vision and image processing tasks
- Proficiency with Git and collaborative development workflows (e.g., GitHub/GitLab)
- Strong documentation and technical writing skills, including the ability to clearly explain methods and results
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team
- Familiarity with project management tools and resources with the ability to meet tight deadlines and perform well under pressure
- Ability to adapt to change and master new technical and organization concepts and processes
- Communication skills to describe technical concepts effectively to both novice and sophisticated users with the ability to write clear, concise and accurate procedural documentation
- Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards
- Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
- Ability to follow formal business practices with high attention to detail
- Commitment to ongoing professional development with a desire to take on new challenges and an ability and willingness to stay abreast of technological developments
- Computer skills with the ability to creatively use and integrate technology to improve quality and productivity
- Excellent troubleshooting ability along with hands-on expertise in technical support
- Demonstrated ability take initiative, to work independently and follow through on work assignments
- Problem solving skills with a sense of urgency in resolving issues and getting tasks completed
- Proven ability and natural inclination to develop relationships by interacting with people in a professional, respectful and diplomatic manner
- Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the research team to achieve department goals
Western Values Diversity
The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.
Please Note:
This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.
Apply at https://recruit.uwo.ca
