Research Assistant - School of Computer Science - CSD

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Retirement plan

Tuition benefits

Paid time off and holidays

Free transit pass

Family Concierge

Fitness center access

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a versatile Research Assistant to support data-driven research across the full project lifecycle from conceptual design to research software development and empirical evaluation.

Under the guidance of the Principal Investigator, you will contribute to data collection and analysis, assist in drafting papers, and help adapt to evolving project objectives while maintaining collaboration and integrity.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous research experience preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, problem Solving and reasoning skills.
• A combination of education and proven experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Research and analyze data to generate insights.
• Develop and test research software and document code.
• Assist PI in drafting papers and formal analyses.
• Adapt to evolving project objectives under PI guidance.

Skills

Research experience

Strong communication

Organization

Problem solving

Reasoning skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and passionate to deliver work that matters. Our world-class institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce talented alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a visionary spirit, and collaboration.

The Computer Science Department (CSD) is one of the seven academic departments in the Carnegie Mellon School of Computer Science (SCS). Our environment is demanding and fast-paced, but it's also innovative, flexible, and highly collaborative.

Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon is also distinctive for our research style, educational programs, commitment to diversity, culture and organizational structure. We are seeking a versatile Research Assistant to support innovative research across the full project lifecycle—from conceptual design and formal analysis to research software development, data exploration, empirical evaluation, and academic publishing. Working directly under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI), you will play an active role in driving data-driven research from early-stage concepts to published work.

Core Responsibilities

• Research & Data Analysis: Collect, record, assess, and analyze research data to evaluate empirical findings and generate insights.
• Software Development & Testing: Write, test, and document research code according to specific project specifications and requirements.
• Academic Contribution: Assist the PI in synthesizing research results, conducting formal analyses, and drafting papers for publication.
• Project Execution: Adapt to evolving project objectives and perform specific research assignments directed by the PI.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous research experience preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, problem‑solving and reasoning skills.
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

• comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
• tuition benefits
• ample paid time off and observed holidays
• life and accidental death and disability insurance
• free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
• access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs
• fitness center access
• and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page. At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Location Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function Researchers Position Type Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term) Full Time/Part time Full time Pay Basis Hourly

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

We are committed to providing an accessible experience throughout our recruitment process. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the application, interview, or hiring process, please contact Equal Opportunity Services by email at [e-mail] or by phone at 412-268-5072.

For technical assistance, email HR Services or call 412-268-4600.