Undergraduate Researcher

Department

Civil/Environ/Arch Engineering

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

Job Description

70% - Depolymerization Studies

* Assist in conducting enzymatic depolymerization research within the School of Engineering, focusing on the use of Leaf-Cut Cutinase (LCC) to investigate polymer degradation processes.

* Support routine laboratory activities such as preparing materials, setting up experimental reactions, maintaining detailed research notes, and collaborating with team members to ensure consistent and accurate execution of experimental procedures.

20% - Data Analysis

* Contribute to the evaluation of experimental outcomes by organizing, reviewing, and interpreting sample data generated from depolymerization studies.

* Utilize appropriate analytical tools or software to summarize results, identify trends, and help inform future experimental planning under the guidance of the research team.

10% - Additional Support

* Perform general laboratory or project-related tasks assigned by the supervisor, which may include assisting with lab organization, equipment maintenance, or supporting other ongoing research activities as needed to advance overall project goals.

Req  (Ex: 10567 )

32098

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses:
Associate Vice Chancellor for Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, , 711 TTY.

Work Schedule

Up to 10 hours per week.

Contact Information to Applicants

Dr. Justin Hutchison

jhutch

Required Qualifications

Must be in good academic standing, as indicated in application materials.

Advertised Salary Range

$17.20

Position Overview

In this role, the Undergraduate Researcher will conduct comprehensive enzymatic depolymerization experiments using Leaf-Cut Cutinase (LCC) within the School of Engineering.

Reg/Temp

Temporary

Application Review Begins

16-Feb-2026

Anticipated Start Date

18-Feb-2026

Additional Candidate Instruction

In addition to the online application, please provide the following.

* Resume/ CV

* Cover Letter addressing required/ preferred qualifications

To ensure full consideration, please apply before the Final date to receive applications of February 15th, 2026.

Position Requirements

During the semester term of the appointment, the student hourly must be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours. For summer periods the student hourly must: (1) have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester or (2) be pre-enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours or (3) be enrolled in summer session or (4) be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester.

Student Hourlies may be undergraduate or graduate students. (Exceptions granted for GRA/GTA/GA appointments DO NOT apply to Student Hourly appointments).

Employment Conditions

(1) Student employees are not eligible for remote work arrangements unless an exception is approved by the unit leadership and HR.

(2) This is an hourly/non-exempt position. A student employee cannot hold an hourly/non-exempt position and a salaried/exempt graduate or undergraduate position (GRA/GTA/GA/RUA/RGA) concurrently.