Research Associate I, II, or III

Position Function:

The visualization and simulation lab in the College of Architecture, Art and Design is seeking a research associate to support funded research projects involving advanced visualization and simulation. Under the supervision of Dr. Bimal Balakrishnan, the research staff will work closely with student researchers and designers to develop interactive 3D and virtual reality simulations. Candidates should have a background in a discipline like architecture, game design, visualization or computer science, and have a strong skillset in 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, animation, and game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine.

Salary Grade : Dependent on Rank

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges.

Department Profile:

The College of Architecture, Art and Design is made up of the School of Architecture, Department of Art, Department of Interior Design, and the Department of Building Construction Science.

Area of Specialization:

Visualization, Simulation, and Game Development

Anticipated Appointment Date:

July 1, 2025

Tenure Track Status:

N/A

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Participate in the full cycle of game/simulation development and work collaboratively with artists, designers, and engineers to develop human-in-the-loop simulations for research and training
Design, implement, and iterate on gameplay through rapid prototyping and feedback cycles
Create or supervise game scripts, and storyboards with other artists
Utilize industry standard 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and animation software and game engine software to create visually compelling simulations, including virtual reality simulations
Assist with usability evaluations of simulation and other human-subjects research projects
Demonstrate simulation projects to diverse audiences through open houses, and other outreach efforts
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a design discipline, game design, visualization, or computer science. Salary and rank (I, II, or III) will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

1. Beginning with a bachelors degree:
a. A professional employee with a bachelors degree and demonstrated competence can begin
work at the Research/Extension Associate I level.
b. To begin at the Research Associate II level, one must have a bachelors degree and a
minimum of 3 years of relevant experience and the equivalent of a masters degree.
c. To begin at the Research Associate III level, one must have a bachelors degree and a
minimum of 6 years of relevant experience and the equivalent of a masters degree.

2. Beginning with a masters degree:
a. A professional employee with a masters degree and a minimum of 1 year of relevant
experience and demonstrated competency can begin work at the Research Associate II level.
b. To begin at the Research Associate III level, one must have a masters degree and a minimum of 3 years of experience.

3. Beginning with a doctoral degree:
a. A professional employee with a doctoral degree with 2 years of relevant experience and
demonstrated competence can begin work at the Research Associate III level.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's or Ph.D. degree preferred in a design discipline, game design, information science or computer science
Experience with 3D game/simulation development

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong understanding of 3D modeling techniques and working knowledge of one or
more software such as 3ds Max, Maya, Blender, or similar
Understanding of game development pipelines and workflow including modeling, texturing, lighting, and animation
Understanding of game design principles and mechanics
Understanding of 3D game or simulation design, including character and level design
Knowledge of game development tools and software such as Unity or Unreal Engine
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Familiarity with programming languages such as C++, C#,
Familiarity with principles of animation and rigging, keyframe animation, motion capture
Familiarity with VR hardware such as the Oculus Quest, HTC Vive
Familiarity of VR-specific concepts such as head-tracking and motion controls

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
No or very limited physical effort required.

Instructions for Applying:

All applicants must apply online at and attach a cover letter, current resume, or curriculum vitae and the complete contact information for at least three professional references. In addition, please upload or provide link to portfolio demonstrating creative and technical skills. Correspondence should be addressed to Dr. Bimal Balakrishnan (...), Associate Dean for Research, College of Architecture, Art and Design.

Restricted Clause:

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, ....

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