Hive Frame Image Annotator (Precision Apiculture Research)

The Precision Apiculture Research Group, headed by Dr. Vladimir Kulyukin in the School of Computing at Utah State University, is seeking a part-time Image Annotator to assist with the curation of FAIRHiveFrames, a large-scale dataset of annotated beehive frame images collected by USDA researchers between 2013 and 2022.

The dataset supports research in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and precision apiculture, with the long-term goal of developing automated methods for biological analysis of digital hive frame imagery.

The successful candidate will work closely with computer scientists and researchers involved in AI-intensive image analysis and biological measurement.

The annotator will:

• Annotate digital hive frame images using specialized image annotation software;
• Label biologically meaningful categories such as: capped worker brood cells, capped drone brood cells, capped honey cells, pollen cells, uncapped nectar cells, bees, queen cups, and related hive-frame structures;
• Perform careful visual inspection of dense hive frame imagery;
• Participate in periodic annotation review and quality-control sessions;
• Maintain consistency and accuracy across large image collections.

Training in the annotation software and annotation protocol will be provided on site. The annotator will identify and label biologically meaningful hive-frame structures whose interpretation often requires practical beekeeping knowledge and careful visual judgment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in practical beekeeping, apiculture, entomology, or closely related agricultural work;
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform sustained visual analysis;
• Ability to interpret biologically meaningful structures in dense hive frame imagery;
• Basic computer proficiency.

Experience with beekeeping is especially valuable for interpreting biologically ambiguous regions.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to applicants with one or more of the following:

• Experience performing hive inspections;
• Familiarity with brood, nectar, pollen, queen structures, and other hive-frame features;
• Background in entomology, biology, agriculture, or related disciplines;
• Prior experience with image annotation or biological imaging datasets;
• Interest in precision apiculture and precision agriculture.

Along with the online application, please include:

• Resume/CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV".

The document listed below to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Documents 1-10”:

• Cover letter describing your relevant background and experience, interest in the position, and how the position fits into your academic or career goals.

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes. The employee is regularly required to sit and often uses repetitive hand motions.

The position involves prolonged periods of visual concentration and computer-based annotation work.

The School of Computing has always had high standards and expectations for academic achievement. The department offers several levels of education in the Computer Science field: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Master of Science in Computer Science, Five Year BS/MS Program, Master of Computer Science, and Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science.

The College of Engineering at Utah State University is a regional leader in teaching and research. We are home to the world-famous Utah Water Research Laboratory and the National Science Foundation-funded ASPIRE Engineering Research Center for sustainable electrified transportation. Each year, our college welcomes an average of 2,600 undergraduate and 375 graduate students from around the globe. The college offers six ABET-accredited undergraduate degrees and nine graduate degree programs. In 2023, the college generated $40 million in research expenditures. Our award-winning faculty regularly secure competitive funding, and our students excel at national design and scholarships challenges. For more information, please visit: https://engineering.usu.edu/.

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

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*updated 12/2025

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*updated 10/2025