Opportunities for Graduate Study

click here for PDF version of this flyer

The University of Tennessee
Sensors and Controls Laboratory
for Agricultural and Biological Systems

Overview:

The Sensors and Controls Laboratory focuses on enhancing agricultural production efficiency, profitability, and environmental stewardship through the development of cutting-edge technology.  Areas of emphasis include development of sensors and control systems, integration and interpretation of geospatial information, and implementation/evaluation of new machinery technology.  Resources include 3,000 ft2 of laboratory space, a staffed electronics design and fabrication shop, a staffed machine shop, and over 35,000 acres of University land dedicated to agricultural research and experimentation.  Graduate assistantships are currently available for qualified and highly motivated applicants.

Project Areas:

Control systems development for targeted placement of seed protection

Ground-based spectral sensor development for real-time plant stress monitoring

Automatic insect detection and census tactics and technologies

Non-intrusive measurement of electrical properties of biological materials

Variable rate fluid controller auto-tuning and dynamic test standards

Evaluation of DGPS-based operator feedback row-guidance systems

Qualifications:

Qualified applicants will possess a B.S. or M.S. in engineering or engineering technology in one of the following fields:  agricultural, civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering.  Background in agricultural production or biology is beneficial.  Experience in machine design, electronics, and computer programming is desirable. 

Contact Information:

John Wilkerson, Ph.D.  (wilkerj@utk.edu)
Telephone:  (865) 974-7266

UT Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science Grad School Application Instructions


Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science Department