Graduate Research Assistant / CAER

Job Title
Graduate Research Assistant / CAER

Requisition Number
DU14089

Department Name
40550:Ctr For Applied Energy Res

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Salary Range
$1150.00

Type of Position
Student

Position Time Status
Part-Time

Required Education

BS in physical sciences or engineering + 0 years of experience.

Required Related Experience

Preference is given to students having made good progress toward the completion of class requirements for the advanced degree and having passed their qualifying exam, and who are thus prepared to begin research credit toward their thesis or dissertation research.

Required License/Registration/Certification

N/A

Physical Requirements

Standing or walking with objects up to 25lbs;
Exposure to: Risk of injuries from use of equipment on the job; Loud noises; Hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste; Temperature extremes; Burns; Cuts/Punctures

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00-5:00 PM, occasional evenings and weekends.

Job Summary

The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) provides research assistantships (RAs) for graduate students pursuing advanced degrees at UK. RAs are academic merit-based awards that recognize outstanding achievement and provide financial support [salary and tuition stipends] for students as they pursue their degrees. RAs at UK function both as students and as professionals. While studying to meet academic requirements for advanced degrees, RAs also complement their formal studies through research under the supervision or tutelage of faculty or staff investigators. RAs provide services in research relevant to their own academic programs of study, or that are reasonably expected to contribute to a student’s dissertation, thesis, independent or directed study.

The successful candidate for this appointment/position as a GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH ASSISTANT (RA) will participate in multidisciplinary studies related to various aspects of materials and characterization for advanced engineering applications.

A sampling of duties and responsibilities the successful candidate will be engaged in are as follows:

• Equipment and Supplies

Assist in the preparation and maintenance of research environment and equipment, including cleaning and set-up duties. Constructs, assembles, installs, operates, calibrates, tests, modifies, and maintains process equipment and analytical apparatus. Responsible for procurement, storage, logging of supplies and equipment. Responsible for handling, identification, packaging and storage of raw materials and samples. Assist in the cleaning and maintenance of lab supplies and equipment.

• Laboratory and Experimental Research

Responsible for collection of data, data storage, and contributes to analysis and interpretation of results, including taking samples, making identifications and taking measurements, and collecting, recording, and coding/ plotting data and analyzing data. Maintains adequate up to date log books and other records. Monitors quality and reproducibility of data, identifies problem areas, and institutes repeats/checks where necessary.

• Results and Scholarly Output

Contributes to the preparation of scholarly reports, abstracts, manuscripts, articles, technical reviews, invention disclosures, and proposal submissions.

• Instruction and Service

May be involved in the instruction and training of other students and employees, and providing technical services for the general public, government, industry and academic organizations.

• Occupational Safety

Maintains clean and safe working area and follows and prosecutes safety procedures. Stays up to date on appropriate use of tools, instruments, computers and analytical apparatus.

Other Terms and Conditions: Graduate Research Assistants must remain in good standing with The Graduate School, including being enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular degree-seeking student in The Graduate School.

A full-time research assistantship at UK is 0.50 FTE (full time equivalency) in the employment system. This means the RA’s work or service for the department shall be for not more than an average of 20 hours per week. The students’ remaining time is expected to be consumed by classroom studies and personal research. To preserve the academic focus of graduate students who are on full-time assistantships and have their tuition paid by the University, The Graduate School does not allow for additional salary or employment beyond 20 hours per week on average in any combination of assignments or employment inside or outside of the university.

The University of Kentucky is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities and other persons underrepresented in sciences, technology, engineering and math are encouraged to apply.

Preferred Education and Experience
BS in physical sciences or engineering + 0 years of experience. Preference is given to students having made good progress toward the completion of class requirements for the advanced degree and having passed their qualifying exam, and who are thus prepared to begin research credit toward their thesis or dissertation research.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Specific skills that are desired include 1.) Knowledge of the methods, materials and techniques of research; 2.) Practical experience in sample preparation and experimentation; 3.) The ability to record and keep accurate records and data; and 4.) Knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply
01/01/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.