POOL: Student Hourly Research Assistant

Center for Public Partnerships & Research; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 19,286 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

The Center for Public Partnerships & Research is seeking Undergraduate Research Assistants in fields such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Physics. The role allows students to conduct relevant research, gain skills, and enhance their academic experience.

Candidates must maintain good academic standing and be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours during their appointment to be eligible. The position offers an hourly wage of $14 - $20 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in relevant engineering or science degree.
• Good academic standing and progress toward a degree are required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in chosen field under guidance of staff.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Attend team meetings as required.

Skills

Good academic standing

Electrical Engineering knowledge

Mechanical Engineering knowledge

Physics knowledge

Computer Sciences knowledge

Geology knowledge

Geography knowledge

Education

Enrolled in relevant field (e.g., Electrical Engineering)

Job description

Position Overview

The Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets (CReSIS) is currently recruiting Undergraduate Research Assistants in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Computer Sciences, Geology, and/or Geography. Undergraduate research assistants (UGRAs) participate in innovative research related to their academic field of study providing an opportunity to expand their skill‑set, apply practical knowledge in a research setting and gain skills which will provide a unique experience resulting in a competitive edge in the job market.

Job Description

85% - Conduct research in chosen field of study under the direction of a CReSIS staff member.

10% - Other related duties as assigned.

5% - Attend team meetings as requested.

Required Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Computer Sciences, Geology, Geography or a related field.
• Student must be in good academic standing and be making satisfactory progress toward a degree.

Position Requirements

During the semester term of the appointment, the student hourly must be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours. For summer periods the student hourly must: (1) have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester or (2) be pre‑enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours or (3) be enrolled in summer session or (4) be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester. Student Hourlies may be undergraduate or graduate students. (Exceptions granted for GRA/GTA/GA appointments DO NOT apply to Student Hourly appointments).

Employment Conditions

• Student employees are not eligible for remote work arrangements unless an exception is approved by the unit leadership and HR.
• This is an hourly/non-exempt position. A student employee cannot hold an hourly/non-exempt position and a salaried/exempt graduate or undergraduate position (GRA/GTA/GA/RUA/RGA) concurrently.

Advertised Salary Range

$14 - $20 per hour, commensurate with experience

Anticipated Start Date

Friday July 10, 2026