Graduate EERC Research Assistant (Geology)

University of North Dakota; Grand Forks (ND); On-site; USD 27,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

University of North Dakota seeks a Graduate EERC Research Assistant in Geology to support subsurface characterization and reservoir evaluation as part of ongoing EERC research activities. The role emphasizes collaboration with researchers and engineers on CCUS, reservoir studies, and sedimentological analyses.

The position is part-time, non-benefited, with 10–16 hours per week for Fall 2026, based in Grand Forks, ND.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in MS/PhD in Geology, Sedimentology & Paleontology, Geochemistry & Petrology, Geological Engineering or related field.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of applied reservoir engineering tests and common methodologies.
• Experience with MS Office Suite, particularly MS Excel for data analysis and MS PowerPoint.
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check.

Responsibilities

• Work 10-16 hours per week during Fall Semester 2026.
• Characterize subsurface formations using geological, geophysical, petrophysical and geochemical data.
• Interpret core, well-log and laboratory data to support reservoir evaluation.
• Contribute to stratigraphic and sedimentological analyses to understand depositional environments and reservoir behavior.
• Develop maps, figures and illustrations to support research findings.
• Prepare, process and analyze geological samples and literature reviews.

Skills

Teamwork

Independent work

Communication

Education

MS/PhD in Geology or related field

Tools

MS Office (Excel)

MS Office (PowerPoint)

Job description

Graduate EERC Research Assistant (Geology)

• 498534
• Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States
• Institutional Student
• Closing on: Sep 11 2026

Salary/Position Classification

• $24.00 hourly, Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
• 10-16 hours per week
• 100% Remote Work Availability: No
• Hybrid Work Availability (requires some time on campus): No

Purpose of Position

This is a part-time, non-benefited position. Only UND students are eligible to be hired in this position.

Duties & Responsibilities

We are looking for a graduate student to work 10-16 hours/week during the Fall Semester 2026.

This work focuses on conducting research and in the fields of geology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), critical resource characterization, characterization of both conventional and unconventional resources, and enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The selected individual will work closely with EERC research scientists and engineers on different activities to achieve the responsibilities detailed below.

• Assist in characterizing subsurface formations and reservoir properties using geological, geophysical, petrophysical, and geochemical data.
• Interpret core, well-log, and laboratory data to support reservoir evaluation.
• Contribute to stratigraphic and sedimentological analyses to improve understanding of depositional environments and reservoir behavior.
• Assist research scientists and engineers in planning, conducting, and documenting research projects.

• Develop maps, figures and illustrations supporting research findings.
• Assist in the planning and preparation of experimental tests.
• Prepare, process, and analyze geological samples, including rocks, cores, cuttings, sediments, and fluids.
• Conduct comprehensive literature reviews, gather data, and perform data conditioning as necessary.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing findings and insights.

Required Competencies

• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to work independently in performance of everyday tasks.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.

Minimum Requirements

• Enrolled in M.S./ Ph.D. in Geology, Sedimentology & Paleontology, Geochemistry & Petrology, Geological Engineering or related field.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of applied reservoir engineering tests and common methodologies
• Experience with MS Office Suite, particularly MS Excel for data analysis and MS PowerPoint
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

The preferred candidate should demonstrate foundational knowledge in:

• Geology and earth sciences
• Sedimentology and stratigraphy
• Petroleum geology and reservoir characterization
• Geochemistry and mineralogy
• Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes
• Characterization of conventional and unconventional oil/gas resources.