Part-Time Research Assistant/Programmer - Yanxi Liu

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 23,866 - 33,992; Part time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring a part-time Research Assistant/Programmer to assist with robotics and machine learning research. This role involves data collection and analysis, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative projects. Candidates should have strong skills in Python, data manipulation, and familiarity with deep learning frameworks. The position offers flexible scheduling and a compensation of $21 per hour, starting June 30, 2025, located at the State College campus.

Qualifications

• Proficient in scripting, debugging, and data manipulation.
• Experience with NumPy for array operations and broadcasting.
• Familiarity with Git for version control.

Responsibilities

• Assist with robotics and machine learning research.
• Conduct data collection and analysis.
• Contribute to cutting-edge research projects.

Skills

Python

Data manipulation

Linux/Unix

Git

Deep learning frameworks (PyTorch/TensorFlow)

Linear Algebra

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Department of Computer Science and Engineering is seeking a part‑time Research Assistant/Programmer to assist with robotics and machine learning research, as well as data collection and data analysis. This project is led by Dr. Yanxi Liu in the School of EECS at Penn State. This position is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research.

Position Details

• Anticipated Start Date: 6/30/25
• End Date: TBD
• Weekly Hours: 20 +/- hours per week (flexible scheduling)
• Compensation: $21 per hour

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.

Foundational and Necessary Skills

Programming & Environment

• Python
• Proficient in scripting, data manipulation, and debugging
• NumPy: experience with array operations, broadcasting, and vectorization
• Linux/Unix: familiarity with shell commands, SSH, file structures, and scripting
• Git: version control using GitHub or GitLab

Mathematics & Geometry

• Linear Algebra
• Basic matrix operations
• Coordinate Systems: understanding of world, camera, and image spaces
• 3D Transformations: rotation, translation, scaling, homogeneous coordinates

Deep Learning

• Experience with at least one deep learning framework such as PyTorch or TensorFlow
• Understanding of neural network architecture (e.g., CNNs)
• Loss functions, optimization, and backpropagation
• Training, evaluation, and debugging
• Computer graphics & vision fundamentals
• Computer graphics basics, mesh structure (vertices, faces, normals)
• Coordinate transformations
• Local vs. global frames, extrinsics/intrinsics

Background Checks & Clearances

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

EEO Statement

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.