Post-bacc

The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is leading an international initiative to develop standardized test methods for ground-based robotic systems and small unmanned aircraft systems. This work is being carried out through the ASTM International Standards Committee on Homeland Security Applications—Response Robots (ASTM E54.09).

NIST invites collaboration on research and development efforts aimed at advancing standardized testing for robotic systems. The scope of this collaborative research includes:

• Designing test apparatuses, performance metrics, and data collection tools to evaluate system capabilities and remote operator proficiency.
• Validating testing protocols, modeling and simulation tools, and reference materials.
• Analyzing experimental data to establish average and best-in-class performance benchmarks, enabling responders to assess and compare their systems using standardized metrics.
• Analyze sensor data and draw suitable conclusions for improving the robot’s efficiency
• Conduct research to improve and innovate robotic technologies, including AI integration, sensor development, and automation processes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate robotics solutions into existing systems and workflows.
• Test, evaluate, and troubleshoot robotic systems to ensure optimal performance and compliance with industry standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation of designs, processes, and results, and prepare technical reports for stakeholders
• Provide technical support and guidance to other engineers and stakeholders involved in robotics projects.

Collaborative work will take place at NIST facilities, and at designated field exercises or data collection events. Testing will involve representative robotic systems to assess the relevance and effectiveness of the test methods for public safety applications.