Research Specialist: Global Computing Laboratory - UTK

Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at University of Tennessee

Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN, USA

USD 65k-65k / year

Posted on May 19, 2026
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The Global Computing Laboratory (GCLab) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), conducts research in high-performance computing (HPC), AI-driven workflows, data management, and reproducibility in scientific computing. Our work addresses challenges in scalable data systems, workflow automation, and sustainable AI for exascale and cloud-HPC environments. We collaborate with national laboratories, universities, and industry partners through NSF and DOE-funded projects.

The GCLab is seeking a Research Specialist to independently support and conduct research projects in the field of high-performance computer architecture. The work assists with the development of a model that tunes HPC applications to maximize workflow performance and robustness even under conditions of system contentions and execution nondeterminism. In addition, this position will serve as a mentor for undergraduate students on the project and submit papers and presentations to refereed journals and conferences.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!
The Global Computing Laboratory (GCLab) is seeking a Research Specialist to independently support and conduct research projects in the field of high-performance computer architecture. The work assists with the development of a model that tunes HPC applications to maximize workflow performance and robustness even under conditions of system contentions and execution nondeterminism.

Required Qualifications

Education:

  • B.S. degree in Computer Science, Computational Sciences, or Math

Experience:

  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (C/C++, Python).

  • 1 Year of software development supported by active GitHub entries in an HPC environment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Graph theory and mathematical methods

  • MPI, OpenMP, C, C++, Python, HPC Systems and tools for their performance measurements

  • Ability to conduct individual research work and to disseminate results independently.

  • Ability to organize and prioritize own and others workload.

  • Good teamwork spirit. Excellent oral, interpersonal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • 2 Years of software development supported by active GitHub entries in an HPC environment

Additional Information

  • This position may require occasional travel to conferences or project meetings

  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Work Location

  • Location: Knoxville, TN

  • Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

  • UT market range: MR07

  • Anticipated hiring range: $65,000

  • Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here

  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments:

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter

If you have questions about this position, please contact:

Prof. Michela Taufer

Dongarra Professor in High Performance Computing

Director, Global Computing Laboratory

Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

E-mail: taufer@utk.edu

Model nondeterminism in HPC applications:

  • Conduct literature review.

  • Run computer experiments and optimization; and

  • Perform data check and analysis.

  • Monitor to ensure that project milestones are being met

Reporting:

  • Prepare manuscripts to publish research results in peer-reviewed technical journals and conference proceedings.

  • Prepare reports and give presentations on the project progress regularly.

  • Provide preliminary results and write discussion of concepts for submission to granting agencies and foundation.

Coordination:

  • Independently coordinate the collaborative research activities with the collaborator at partnering institutions to ensure that project milestones are being achieved.

Mentorship:

  • Mentor undergraduate students while they perform research tasks on the project

Apply now
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