Research Assistant Positions - LLMs and AI for Data Analysis (Spring 2027)

Penn State Lady Lions; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State Lady Lions are seeking master's students in Computer Science or related fields for part-time Research Assistant roles in Spring 2027. Exceptionally qualified undergrads may be considered.

You'll work on projects involving large language models, AI agents, and their use in data analysis and scientific research. Responsibilities include developing LLM-based methods, running computational experiments, building research software, and analyzing results.

Qualifications

• Strong Python programming skills and software development experience.
• Experience with machine learning, DL, or LLM applications and evaluation.
• Familiarity with PyTorch, Transformers, LangChain or similar tools.
• Research project experience or internships in software development.
• Ability to work independently and write reproducible code.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evaluate LLM-based methods for data analysis and research.
• Implement computational experiments and build research software.
• Analyze experimental results and document findings.

Skills

Python programming

ML/DL/LLM applications

PyTorch / Transformers / LangChain

Independent research projects

Troubleshooting reproducible code

Education

Master's student in Computer Science or related field

Undergraduates with strong qualifications considered

Tools

PyTorch

Hugging Face Transformers

LangChain

Git / research software tools

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Department of Statistics at Penn State seeks to hire master's students in Computer Science or related fields as part-time Research Assistants for Spring 2027. Exceptionally qualified undergraduate students will also be considered.

Successful candidates will work on research projects involving large language models (LLMs), AI agents, and their applications in data analysis and scientific research. Responsibilities may include developing and evaluating LLM-based methods, implementing computational experiments, building research software, and analyzing experimental results.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Strong Python programming skills and demonstrated experience developing software or computational projects;
• Experience with machine learning, deep learning, or LLM applications, including model evaluation, fine-tuning, or agent-based systems;*
• Familiarity with relevant libraries and frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, Hugging Face Transformers, LangChain, or similar tools);*
• Experience with research projects, software development internships, or independent technical projects;*
• Ability to work independently, troubleshoot technical problems, and write well-documented, reproducible code.

Prior research experience is desirable but not required. Candidates with strong technical skills and an interest in conducting research are encouraged to apply.

Hours, wages, and anticipated periods of employment will vary based on project needs and applicant availability. In addition to the application on workday, please fill out this form RA application 2027 - Fill out form. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For full consideration, please apply by Nov. 20, 2026.

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.