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

Penn State University; University Park (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University in University Park, PA seeks master's students in Computer Science or related fields for part-time Research Assistant positions in Spring 2027. Exceptionally qualified undergraduates may also apply.

You will work on research projects involving large language models, AI agents, and their applications in data analysis and scientific research. Responsibilities include developing and evaluating LLM-based methods, implementing computational experiments, building research

Qualifications

• Strong Python programming skills.
• Experience with ML/DL/LLM applications.
• Familiar with PyTorch, Transformers, LangChain.
• Experience with research projects or internships.
• Write well-documented, reproducible code.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evaluate LLM-based methods.
• Implement computational experiments.
• Build research software.
• Analyze experimental results.

Skills

Python

ML/DL/LLM

PyTorch

Transformers

LangChain

Research projects

Independent work

Education

Master's student in CS or related

Tools

PyTorch

HuggingFace

LangChain

Job description

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.

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