The Undergraduate Research Assistant- Level 2 (URA2), will assist with department-related grant-funded research projects for the duration of the grant. The URA2 works under direct supervision of a Principal Investigator (PI) and/or Graduate Research Technician (GRT). The URA2 is assigned duties and carries out research objectives and tasks as outlined by the PI based on the active grant(s)/contract(s). While supervised, URA2 will be expected to be proficient at guidelines and protocols for lab safety and have an excellent grasp of lab manuals and laboratory terminology. URA2 must be capable to perform routine tasks outlined by the Principle Investigator related to a particular area of research. It is a position which will also be responsible for assisting URA1s working on the same grant with their onboarding process. URA2 will be required to contribute to experiments, field and laboratory tests by monitoring, recording and summarizing results, which could include preparing tables, charts, graphs. In addition, URA2 will need to become competent in using lab equipment, to maintain supplies and to perform equipment testing and calibration, if deemed necessary. Off-hours and weekend work may be required.

• Demonstrate an understanding of engineering principles, processes and equipment.
• Data analyses, which may require programming in Matlab, Python or Mathematica.
• Simple literature surveys and order articles from the library
• Familiar with computer hardware and software associated with engineering principles
• Capable of some independent research directed toward investigation, evaluation, and application of known engineering theories and principles
• Perform limited engineering analyses/experiments to prove, or modify theoretical propositions
• Will be expected to have some experience with equipment operations and maintenance. (i.e. CNC-Machining equipment, HPC, Materials Analysis, etc.)

• Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office and other Engineering software such as FEA or CAD, etc.

• Demonstrate in-depth problem solving in one area of technology or engineering discipline such as operating specialized instrumentation or subject matter knowledge such as Heat Transfer.

• URA2 will need to become competent on at least two pieces of engineering equipment, maintain supplies and prepare equipment for testing.

Additional information may be found here
The above statements describe the approximate nature of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive description of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel with this classification.The job description may alter depending on the nature of the grant/contract that is being fulfilled.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Work effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering Liberty University's mission Demonstrate exemplary behavior in creating and promoting a safe work environment Maintain accurate records of conducted research tasks based on the guidance adopted by the PI for lab tools and techniques Organize work, collect and assist with data analysis, make calculations Assist Principle Investigator in performing and developing assigned tasks Per Principle Investigator's request, assist lower level personnel with their responsibilities Demonstrate some proficiency in preparing materials for publications and presentations Supervise preparation and writing of progress reports Meet with faculty supervisor to maintain an ongoing assessment of the performance Perform other related duties as required
QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALS
Education and Experience

• Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, with a minimum of three semesters completed
• Successful completion of 8 credit hours of 200-300 level courses in the associated field of research (Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or Civil Engineering) or equivalent knowledge of the material and techniques required by research goals
• 3.0 or higher GPA preferred (at PI discretion)
• 1 year(s) research related experience preferred

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB
Communication and Comprehension

• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner.
• Communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University to a variety of business and community customers and associates.
• Strong aptitude for learning new skills, i.e. teachable
• Strong organizational skills
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office

Problem Solving

• Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.
• Resolve most technical issues from Research Assistants I.

Physical and Sensory Abilities

• Occasionally required to travel to local and campus locations.
• Frequently required to sit for extended periods to perform deskwork, type on a keyboard, and complete research-related assays.
• Regularly required to hear and speak in order to effectively communicate orally.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, and climb stairs (multiple flights) to move about the building.
• Handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business.
• Regularly lift 20 or fewer pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work Environment
The working environment of this position is a climate-controlled laboratory setting.It is well lighted and the noise level is moderate. Other environments may include a machine shop to prepare components or an onsite visit to a local vendor.
Driving Requirements
Use of one's personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position.Proof of a valid state issued driver's license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.