Graduate Level Part-Time Research Assistants

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University invites motivated graduate students to join the Energy and Mineral Engineering research programs as Part-Time Graduate Research Assistants. Students will work under faculty supervision on projects spanning energy production, transition, and sustainability.

Responsibilities include conducting original research, assisting with lab, computational, or field activities, participating in project meetings, and collaborating with industry partners, national laboratories, and

Qualifications

• BS in petroleum engineering, geomechanics, mechanical engineering, or related field.
• Strong academic record and motivation for research.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Prior research or industry experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original research and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications and conference presentations
• Assist with laboratory, computational, or field‑based research activities
• Participate in project meetings and support grant reporting and documentation
• Collaborate with industry partners, national laboratories, and academic collaborators

Skills

Research experience

Written & oral communication

Team collaboration

Education

BS in petroleum engineering, geomechanics, mechanical engineering, or related

Job description

Job Description and Position Requirements

The John and Willie Leone Family Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering at Penn State seeks motivated graduate students to join our research programs as Part‑Time Graduate Research Assistants. Students will work under the supervision of faculty on cutting‑edge projects spanning energy production, transition, and sustainability.

Research Areas: Students may be engaged in projects related to geomechanics, wellbore integrity, geothermal energy systems, hydraulic fracturing, carbon sequestration, underground energy storage, critical minerals extraction, or the repurposing of fossil energy infrastructure for clean energy applications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original research and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications and conference presentations
• Assist with laboratory, computational, or field‑based research activities
• Participate in project meetings and support grant reporting and documentation
• Collaborate with industry partners, national laboratories, and academic collaborators

Qualifications

• B.S. in petroleum engineering, geomechanics, mechanical engineering, or a related field
• Strong academic record and motivation for research
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Prior research or industry experience is a plus

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Campus Security Crime Statistics

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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.

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