Post-Bachelors Research Assistant

Position Responsibilities:

The department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering of the College of Engineering seeks culturally and professionally diverse candidates to apply for the Post-Bachelors Research Assistant position. Since its inception in 1996, the Virginia Commonwealth University College of Engineering has brought innovative, real-world engineering education to Central Virginia. Comprised of five different departments plus the Dean’s office, the College of Engineering enrolls more than 1,700 undergraduate and 250 graduate students in several degree programs supported by approximately 600 full-time, part-time, and student employees. As part of a premier research university known for tenacity, love of the city of Richmond, and commitment to diversity and access, the College of Engineering values the significant and positive impact of our people and ideas in the promotion of regional and global prosperity involving research and life sciences.

The Fluids in Advanced Science and Technology (FAST) Research Group lead by Dr. Lane Carasik conducts thermal hydraulics research in clean energy systems including nuclear, fusion, and concentrated solar energy. The FAST Research Group has a need for a one-year term Post-Bachelors Research Assistant. This position will be responsible for the day-to-day activities required to support the research goals of the FAST Research Group involving both experimental and computational activities. Specifically, duties include:

-Facilitate research in the area of robotics and code beats and assist in the completion of critical lab functions
-Execute prescribed protocols as outlined by supervisor in a timely and organized manner
-Consistently record experimental results in comprehensive laboratory notebooks and periodically report to supervisor
-Perform general clerical tasks necessary for daily operation of laboratory
-Perform routine laboratory tests and experimental procedures
-Assist research personnel with more complex experiments and procedures
-Part-time, non-benefited position limited to 29 hours per week.

Required Qualifications:

-An open mind and excitement to learn new research techniques and concepts.
-Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Nuclear Engineering or Nuclear Engineering.
-The College of Engineering supports a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment. The candidate will demonstrate experience that shows their commitment to fostering such an environment
-Ability to coordinate and conduct multiple experiments simultaneously.
-Must be detail-oriented and have good observation skills. Should have a willingness to learn and use specialized techniques.
-Familiarity with the research process and principles of research design required
-Excellent interpersonal, organizational, time management and communication skills.
-Ability to establish priorities and to handle multiple tasks.
-Successful applicant should be able to generate sound scientific data and associated reports with the ability to present results clear and concisely across frequent internal and external team meetings

Preferred Qualifications:

-Ability to code in Python with experience using Matplotlib, numpy, and pandas.
-Ability to use github and git version control systems.
-Understanding of experimental design and experimental activities including design and running of labview software.

The College of Engineering’s mission is to create and grow a diverse community of exceptional students, faculty, staff, alumni, and industry partners that strive to create a common future for all where innovative, sustainable, and equitable solutions to global engineering challenges are realized for the benefit of this generation and future generations. Additional information about the department’s programs and faculty may be found at https://egr.vcu.edu/departments/mechanical/

Salary Range: $12-17/ hour



Position Details:

Department:
Employment Type: H1 - Hourly
Restricted Status: Yes
FTE: .725
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt



Contact Information:

Contact Name: Emily Perrault

Contact Email: perraultek@vcu.edu