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, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

 

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Join the SMILE research team to support the design, testing, and dissemination of SMILE learning exercises and to assist with qualitative/quantitative data collection for evaluating student and stakeholder experiences. Undergraduate research assistants will contribute to developing educational materials, coordinating interviews and focus groups, producing high-quality research documentation (e.g., notes and transcripts), and sharing project outcomes through professional communication channels, including conferences and academic/professional social media/website. This role provides hands-on experience with research operations, qualitative methods, and educational innovation using AI and Large Language Models, with opportunities to build practical skills in study coordination, content development, and applied analysis.

Requirements and Qualifications

Candidates should have:

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student (any relevant major; examples: Information Sciences & Technology, Social Sciences, Education, Human-Centered Design, Communications, Computer Science, or related fields).

• Strong writing and communication skills, with attention to detail (e.g., accurate note-taking, clear documentation).

• Reliability and professionalism in scheduling and research support (timely follow-ups, meeting deadlines).

• Comfortable learning new tools and workflows (e.g., shared documents, scheduling tools, basic web platforms, statistical analysis).

• Creativity and independent work abilities.

• Two-to three-year commitment to the projects.

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

 

 

 

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