ISTD Energy Branch Student Assistant - Summer 2026 - ATAS

Overview:

The Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is the nonprofit, applied research division of the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). Founded in 1934 as the Engineering Experiment Station, GTRI has grown to more than 2,900 employees, supporting eight laboratories in over 20 locations around the country and performing more than $940 million of problem-solving research annually for government and industry. GTRI's renowned researchers combine science, engineering, economics, policy, and technical expertise to solve complex problems for the U.S. federal government, state, and industry.   

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Georgia Tech's mission is to develop leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition. The Institute has nine key values that are foundational to everything we do: 

1. Students are our top priority.
2. We strive for excellence.
3. We thrive on diversity.
4. We celebrate collaboration.
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6. We safeguard freedom of inquiry and expression.
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8. We act ethically.
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Job Description

The Energy Branch of the Intelligent Sustainable Technologies Division (ISTD) within the Aerospace, Transportation and Advanced Systems Laboratory (ATAS) is seeking a Student Assistant for Summer 2026. The Student Assistant with will support fuel cell and related energy research projects., with emphasis on:

• Thermal analysis and characterization of components and systems
• Conducting experiments, collecting data, and interpreting results
• Mechanical design, prototyping, and fabrication of experimental hardware
• Basic electronic design and integration of sensors, instrumentation, and control hardware
• Systems engineering and system-level integration and testing

Preference will be given to candidates majoring in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline, with demonstrated interest in energy systems and/or fuel cell technology. This position is part time (10–20 hours per week) during the summer, with potential to continue into subsequent semesters depending on performance, funding, and project needs.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of fundamental coursework in thermodynamics, heat transfer, or fluid mechanics (or equivalent)
• Familiarity with basic electronics, sensors, and data acquisition or control (e.g., LabVIEW, Arduino, or similar)
• Basic hands-on laboratory or shop experience (course labs, maker space, student design/build projects, etc.)
• Experience using CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar) for mechanical design and prototyping
• Ability to work 10–20 hours per week on site in a laboratory environment and to follow established safety procedures

Student Assistant

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Must be registered for at least 6 credit hours with your university
• 3.5 or higher cumulative GPA

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated interest in energy systems, electrochemical systems, or fuel cell technology (e.g., coursework, projects, clubs, or prior research)
• Hydrogen technologies cognizance
• Exposure to thermal-fluidic experimental procedures and thermal transience characterization
• Experience operating rapid prototyping and machining equipment
• Strong math skills and ability to learn complex engineering concepts
• Ability to clearly communicate technical ideas

Hours per Week

10–20 hours per week

U.S. Citizenship Requirements

Not Applicable

Clearance Type Required

None

Housing and Relocation

Housing and relocation assistance are not available for this position.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Institute is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful environment for all. To that end, and in accordance with federal and state law, Board of Regents policy, and Institute policy, Georgia Tech provides equal opportunity to all faculty, staff, students, and all other members of the