Part Time - Student; Undergraduate - NSF Socratic Metacognitive Inquiry- Learning Environment Project

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Join the SMILE research team to support the design, testing, and dissemination of SMILE learning exercises and to assist with qualitative/quantitative data collection for evaluating student and stakeholder experiences. Undergraduate research assistants will contribute to developing educational materials, coordinating interviews and focus groups, producing high-quality research documentation (e.g., notes and transcripts), and sharing project outcomes through professional communication channels, including conferences and academic/professional social media/website.

This role provides hands-on experience with research operations, qualitative methods, and educational innovation using AI and Large Language Models, with opportunities to build practical skills in study coordination, content development, and applied analysis.

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student (any relevant major; examples:
  Information Sciences & Technology, Social Sciences, Education, Human-Centered Design, Communications, Computer Science, or related fields).
• Strong writing and communication skills, with attention to detail (e.g., accurate note-taking, clear documentation).
• Reliability and professionalism in scheduling and research support (timely follow-ups, meeting deadlines).
• Comfortable learning new tools and workflows (e.g., shared documents, scheduling tools, basic web platforms, statistical analysis).
• Creativity and independent work abilities.
• Two-to three-year commitment to the projects.

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters.

The ASR is available for review.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.