Part-Time Undergraduate Research Assistant - Department of Statistics

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University in Pennsylvania is seeking approximately three undergraduate research assistants for Summer 2026 to support a NSF-funded project on teaching, learning, and assessment in statistics education. You will help create a new dataset of student responses from partner institutions in the U.S.

and New Zealand and will learn about formative assessment rubrics. Successful applicants will collaborate with faculty and graduate students from Statistics and Computer Science &

Qualifications

• Knowledge of introductory statistics concepts.
• Interest in research that improves education practices.

Skills

Intro statistics concepts

Interest in education research

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Department of Statistics seeks to hire approximately three (3) undergraduate research assistants primarily during Summer 2026 as part of a research project related to teaching, learning, and assessment for Statistics Education funded in part by the U.S. National Science Foundation. Successful applicants will work on a team with faculty and graduate students from the departments of Statistics and Computer Science & Engineering, will help create a unique new dataset of student responses to statistics questions collected from partner institutions across the U.S. and New Zealand, and will gain state-of-the-art knowledge on development of formative assessment questions and rubrics. Strong candidates should have a demonstrated interest in STEM Education. Hours, wages and anticipated periods of employment will vary. Applications should be submitted prior to April 10 in order to ensure full consideration, but the position will remain open until available positions are filled.

Basic Qualifications

• Knowledge of introductory statistics concepts
• Interest in research that improves education practices

Desired Qualifications

• Direct experience with teaching, learning, and assessment practices (e.g., Learning Assistant, Grader, UTA, math education major/minor)
• Experience with multiple statistics courses

Since funding for these positions is associated with research sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), there may be additional eligibility requirements imposed by NSF.

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

There's a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world's universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom - it's the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania's sole land-grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through our teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters - more than half a million strong - driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities.

At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that is rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement.

Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.