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

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University in University Park seeks part-time Research Assistants for Spring 2027 to work on projects involving large language models, AI agents, and data analysis. Exceptionally qualified undergraduates may be considered.

Successful candidates will contribute to cutting-edge research and software development in a collaborative setting. Applicants should have strong Python skills and a background in ML/DL/LLM applications, with experience in experimental evaluation, model

Qualifications

• Proven Python programming skills and software development experience.
• Experience with machine learning, deep learning, or LLM applications including evaluation/fine-tuning.
• Familiarity with PyTorch, Transformers, LangChain or similar tools.
• Experience with research projects or internships; ability to write reproducible code.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Python programming

ML/DL/LLM experience

Independent work

Education

Master's student in CS or related field

Tools

PyTorch

Hugging Face Transformers

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

Responsibilities may include developing and evaluating LLM-based methods, implementing computational experiments, building research software, and analyzing experimental results.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 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

Hours, wages, and anticipated periods of employment will vary based on project needs and applicant availability.

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.

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.

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