Ocean Modeling Reinforcement Learning Researcher

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking an Ocean Modeling Reinforcement Learning Researcher at Stennis Space Center in MS. The geographic scope of the battlespace environment is expanding, placing new demands on existing modeling efforts. As demands grow, Navy is using unmanned systems more and more to collect data, leading to the need for better ways to control movement of those slow moving, low energy systems.

 

This project seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of Reinforcement Learning (RL) for enabling a single-agent and a multi-agent team to complete a hydrographic mapping mission over a defined area while minimizing energy expenditure with safe recovery at the end of the mission. Controlled agents are IVER unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVS) and ocean gliders. Conduct observation system simulation experiments (OSSE) in the Western Pacific. A nature run is taken to be the model representation of the true ocean conditions, while a second model serves as the forecast model used to plan UUV control. The control flight pattern completes the mission with baseline levels of area coverage, time of mission, and remaining battery life for margin of error at the recovery location. The control path is defined in advance and is not subsequently adjusted for onboard observations or forecast predictions. Use RL to optimize conduct of the mission using inputs from model forecasts and feedback from platform sensors to subsequent model forecasts.

 

What you will do: 

• Preparing the nature run data and second model forecasts
• Generating the training data sets
• Defining the energy consumption module
• Defining the metrics of mission success in terms of area coverage, time to mission completion, and energy remaining at the end of the mission
• Executing the control run
• Executing the various control runs under RL management
• Introduce relevant aspects to platform control under the glider control framework

Qualifications

 

What you will need: 

• 2 years with BS/BA; 0 years with MS/MA, 6 years no degree
• MS in an Engineering or Applied Science Field, a PhD or work toward a PhD is a plus
• Must have coding experience in Fortran and C++
• Must have experience with Linux, Shell Scripting, and High Performance Computing (HPC)
• Must be knowledgeable in Ocean Modeling.
• Must be familiar with U.S. Navy standard ocean models
• Must have a Secret security clearance
• Experience working in a Navy operational or research oceanography facility.

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range

$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.