Undergraduate Research Assistant

University of Texas; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Texas at Austin is seeking an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Molecular Biosciences department to help develop a backend PostgreSQL database and a frontend Django web server with user login authentication. Responsibilities include coding in Python, designing database schemas, and coordinating with lab staff to ensure secure access.

The role is 10 hours per week, starts immediately, and is expected to continue through February 19, 2027.

Qualifications

• Strong work ethic.
• Highly organized, with an ability to plan ahead.
• Flexible schedule.
• Facility with Excel and similar programs.

Responsibilities

• Experience programming in Python.
• Basic understanding of SQL database structure and development.
• Familiarity with Django and PostgreSQL.
• Consider hosting on AWS for database/webserver.

Skills

Python

SQL

Django

PostgreSQL

AWS familiarity

Strong Work Ethic

Highly organized

Flexible schedule

Excel proficiency

Tools

PostgreSQL

AWS

Job description

Job Posting Title: Undergraduate Research Assistant

Hiring Department: Molecular Biosciences

Position Open To: All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled Hours: 10

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Earliest Start Date: Immediately

Position Duration: Expected to Continue Until Feb 19, 2027

Location: AUSTIN, TX

Job Details

Purpose Assist lab staff to develop both a backend SQL Database using PostgreSQL, and a front-end web server with user login authentication using the Django web framework.

Responsibilities

• Experience programming in Python
• Basic Understanding of SQL Database Structure and Development
• Nice to have familiarity with the Django Web Framework, and PostgreSQL.
• Familiarity with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as I assume this is the route we will go for hosting the database/webserver (unless BioMade wants to host it on local servers, this will likely come up in our meeting).

Required Qualifications

• Strong Work Ethic
• Highly organized, with an ability to plan ahead
• Flexible schedule
• Facility with Excel and similar programs
• Interest in science and technology a plus, but not necessary

Hourly Rate $20.00/hour

Working Conditions

• Uniforms and/or personal protection equipment (furnished).
• May work around chemical fumes.
• May work around standard office conditions.
• May work around biohazards.
• May work around chemicals.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Employment Eligibility

Please make sure you meet all the required qualifications and you can perform all of the essential functions with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Retirement Plan Eligibility

Students in this position may choose to enroll in the UTSaver voluntary retirement programs.

Background Checks

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Pay Transparency

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Employment Eligibility Verification

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

E-Verify

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university’s company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following: E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF] Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF] Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

Compliance

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031. The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.

Company Culture

Start Here, Change the World At The University of Texas at Austin, tradition meets innovation in the heart of a city that frequents lists of the best places to live and work. Named by Forbes as one of America's Best Large Employers for the sixth year in a row in 2025, UT offers both a dynamic work environment and a gateway to vibrant local culture. Whether you're at the forefront of the student experience, conducting world-changing research or supporting the engine that drives Texas’ flagship university, working at UT means making a lasting impact on our city, our state and our world. Our more than 20,000 faculty and staff empower 55,000+ students to challenge ideas, pursue passions and shape their futures. Joining UT, you’ll become part of a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact on campus and throughout the world.

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