RESEARCH ASST II (Student/Work Study)

University of Michigan; Flint (MI); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Michigan (UM-Flint) seeks a part-time, temporary research support student to assist in modeling, data analysis, and energy-management studies for hydrogen fuel-cell and battery systems. The role involves literature reviews, engineering calculations, and MATLAB/Excel-based simulations, with opportunities to contribute to technical reports and publications under faculty supervision.

Hybrid work arrangements are possible and the position emphasizes gaining hands-on experience in

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled UM-Flint graduate student in a relevant engineering field.
• Strong understanding of energy systems and quantitative analysis.
• Familiarity with Excel and basic data-analysis methods.
• Ability to search literature, interpret technical information, and document research activities.
• Willingness to learn modeling software and lab procedures under supervision.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews and collect relevant technical data.
• Assist with engineering calculations, energy-system modeling, and simulation using MATLAB, Excel, or similar tools.
• Analyze drive-cycle data, traction power, fuel-cell performance, hydrogen use, battery behavior, and energy management strategies.
• Support laboratory preparation, equipment operation, measurements, and experimental activities as applicable.
• Organize research data, prepare technical figures and tables, and document modeling and experimental results.
• Participate in research meetings and assist with technical reports, presentations, and publications.

Skills

Engineering principles

Energy systems

Quantitative analysis

Literature reviews

Education

Graduate student in Mechanical Engineering (UM-Flint)

Tools

MATLAB

Excel

Job description

Support faculty-led research on the modeling, analysis, and energy management of hydrogen fuel-cell and battery hybrid systems. The position involves assisting with engineering calculations, data analysis, computational modeling, simulation, and research-related laboratory activities to support energy efficiency, system performance, and sustainability objectives.

Responsibilities*

• Conduct literature reviews and collect relevant technical data.
• Assist with engineering calculations, energy-system modeling, and simulation using MATLAB, Excel, or similar tools.
• Analyze drive-cycle data, traction power requirements, fuel-cell performance, hydrogen consumption, battery behavior, and energy management strategies.
• Support laboratory preparation, equipment operation, measurements, and experimental activities as applicable.
• Organize research data, prepare technical figures and tables, and document modeling and experimental results.
• Participate in research meetings and assist with technical reports, presentations, and research publications.

Required Qualifications*

• Current UM-Flint graduate student in Mechanical Engineering, Sustainable Energy, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Advanced understanding of engineering principles, energy systems, and quantitative analysis.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and basic computational or data-analysis methods
• Ability to conduct literature searches, interpret technical information, and document research activities.
• Willingness to learn modeling software, laboratory procedures, and research methodologies under faculty supervision.

Desired Qualifications*

• Previous laboratory, experimental, computational modeling, or research experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Good organizational, teamwork, written communication, and technical presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage assigned tasks, and collaborate effectively with faculty and other research students.

Modes of Work

Hybrid
The work requirements allow both onsite and offsite work and an employee has an expected recurring onsite presence. On occasion, the employee may be required and must be available to work onsite more frequently if necessitated by unit leadership or their designee and/or the job requirements.

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checksare performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Temp job openings are posted for a minimum of three calendar days.The review and selection process maybegin as early as the fourth day after posting.Thisopening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.