New

Undergraduate Research Assistant

The Pennsylvania State University
remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Mar 05, 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 Undergraduate Research Assistant - Position Overview We are seeking a motivated and detailoriented undergraduate student to support ongoing experimental work in the lab, focusing on the separation of coarse particles. The project involves evaluating novel separation techniques and materialsprocessing approaches, including highenergy planetary ball milling and sample characterization workflows. This position is ideal for students interested in materials science, mineral processing, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields who want to gain handson research experience in a laboratory setting. Key Responsibilities Assist with highenergy planetary ball milling experiments, including preparing milling jars and media, setting milling parameters (speed, time, balltopowder ratio), and operating equipment safely under supervision. Support sample handling and preparation for downstream analysis: labeling, sieving, and weighing milled or separated samples; organizing and cataloging samples for further testing such as XRD or surface area analysis. Assist with HydroFloat separation tests, including setup and monitoring of coarse particle feeds and slurry mixtures. Maintain a clean and organized workspace and follow all lab safety protocols. Record experimental data and observations accurately in lab notebooks or electronic logs. Attend brief team checkins or research updates as needed. Qualifications Currently enrolled undergraduate student in Energy and Mineral Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow technical instructions precisely. Comfortable working in a laboratory environment; prior lab experience or coursework is preferred. 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. Penn State 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. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines