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Undergraduate Research Assistant

The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA Full Time
POSTED ON 10/28/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/28/2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Materials Science and Engineering department at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a seeking motivated undergraduate students majoring in Material Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Engineering Science and Mechanics to join our research team. As an Undergraduate Research Assistant, you will collaborate closely with graduate students, assisting them in their research programs. This position offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience, contribute to cutting-edge projects, and develop essential technical skills. Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.

Responsibilities:

  • Sample Fabrication: Prepare and fabricate materials samples according to
  • project requirements.
  • Data Collection: Assist in collecting experimental data using various
  • techniques and instruments.
  • Materials Characterization: Conduct analyses such as microscopy,
  • spectroscopy, and mechanical testing to characterize materials.
  • Data Analysis: Process and analyze experimental results, drawing
  • meaningful conclusions.
  • Report Compilation: Collaborate with graduate students to compile
  • research findings into comprehensive reports.
  • Technical Communication: Develop effective communication skills by
  • presenting research outcomes and contributing to project discussions.

Qualifications:

  • Currently enrolled in an undergraduate engineering program.

Science, Nuclear, Electrical, Aerospace, or related fields).

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental protocols.
  • Eagerness to learn and contribute to ongoing research projects.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
  • Familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety procedures.

Benefits:

  • Exposure to graduate-level research and advanced technical concepts.
  • Insight into topics related to nuclear engineering and hypersonic vehicles.
  • Opportunity to enhance technical writing and presentation skills.
  • Collaborative work environment with experienced researchers.

Join our dynamic team and make a meaningful impact on cutting-edge engineering research!

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

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Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

 

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