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Undergraduate Research Assistant, Materials Science and Engineering

Penn State University
University Park, United Statespart_timeVerifiedPosted 23 Jun 2025
💰 $36,000/yr

About the role

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

 

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

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 (Material

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.

Compensation:

The starting rate for this job is $18/hr

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

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Company

Penn State University

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