Description

University of Kentucky

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

Posting Details Posting Details Job TitleResearch Scientist Senior/KTCRequisition NumberRE53087Working TitleResearch Scientist Sr.Department Name8H060:Kentucky Transportation CenterWork LocationLexington, KYGrade Level47Salary Range$57,158-94,286/yearType of PositionStaffPosition Time Status Full-TimeRequired EducationMSClick here for more information about equivalencies:https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalenciesRequired Related Experience3 yrsRequired License/Registration/CertificationNone.Physical RequirementsSitting at computer workstation for extended periods; repetitive motion; job-related travel; and lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects up to 50lbs.ShiftMonday Friday; 8:00 am 5:00 pm; and requires some day travel and/or overnight stays.Job SummaryThe Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) seeks applicants for a Research Scientist Senior. Prospective applicants should be interested in multidisciplinary transportation research and working on a broad range of topics. The Center performs research to promote transportation solutions for local governments, state agencies, federal agencies, and non-profit organizations. The research focus for this position will be on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). ITS research areas encompass a wide array of topics in a rapidly changing technology environment. Some research areas can include, but are not limited to, the following: traffic management and optimization, safety and security technologies, sensor-based platforms, IT network architecture, digital infrastructure, machine learning, data analytics, and vehicle and roadside communication devices.

The Research Scientist Senior is tasked with (1) collaborating with senior staff to develop research designs and select appropriate methodologies for funded projects and grant proposals; (2) leading information collection efforts through data acquisition, interviews, and surveys; (3) leading complex data analysis efforts and interpreting analytical results in relation to project objectives and outcomes; (4) evaluating existing and emerging technologies for feasibility and adoption; (5) managing the delivery and content of periodic project progress reports; (6) facilitating coordination between KTC, study advisory committees, and external clients to keep projects on track; (7) communicating research findings to clients through meetings or other collaborative efforts; (8) serving as a primary author on technical reports, grant proposals, and supporting documentation through streamlined and cohesive report narratives; (9) presenting research results to government agencies, industry partners, and other vested stakeholders at professional conferences; and (10) and otherwise assisting senior research staff and leadership in advancing research efforts to develop innovative solutions to the client's research needs. The Research Scientist Senior is expected to operate with a high degree of independence while providing technical leadership within project teams and fostering strong, sustained partnerships with clients, transportation organizations, and agencies.

KTC is a growth-driven, dynamic, and collegial environment where salary and benefits packages are competitive with the private sector. Our key benefits include (1) a wide selection of affordable health care plans (HMO, PPO, and Saver), vision insurance options, and dental insurance plans to fit your needs; (2) generous retirement savings plans managed through Fidelity or TIAA — the University of Kentucky provides a 200% match on monthly employee contributions; (3) 15 days of vacation per year (initially), 12 days of sick leave, and 14 days of paid holidays; (4) numerous opportunities for professional development — the Center invests in staff by funding attendance at local, regional, and national conferences, trainings, and other short courses; and (5) the University of Kentucky's Employee Education Program (EEP), which provides tuition waivers for up to 18 credit hours per academic year.

At KTC, our organization promotes positive and impactful outcomes through interesting, exciting, and challenging work. We remain committed to building a respectful workplace that recognizes employees perform their best when they maintain a healthy work-life balance. Come join us in building the transportation systems of the future!

A complete submission for this position includes a cover letter, resume, and completed application (skillset, job summary).

Required is a Writing Sample which can be accessed in the Applicant Documents Section of the application under Writing Sample.Skills / Knowledge / AbilitiesProviding technical assist/training or other related experience with governmental organizations
Communication competency, computer skills for presentation development, interpersonal skills.Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? YesPreferred Education/ExperienceMaster's Degree and three years experience.


Deadline to Apply02/05/2026Our University CommunityWe value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Please rate the following statement -- I am very comfortable working in teams.
   • Strongly disagree
   • Disagree
   • Agree
   • Strongly Agree
2. * On what computer applications are you proficient?

   (Open Ended Question)

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. Writing Sample

Optional Documents

PI281964830