WS – Summer – ACA Undergraduate Research Assistant – High Energy Physics - IWS

Division: CAS                                                             Department: PHysics

Experience: Experienced                                     

Job Code: IWSACAPHYUGRA                                GL Code: Exp Learning & ACA

Supervisor of Student Employee(s): Samuel Lane

FWS, IWS, or Grant Funded: ☐ FWS, ☐ IWS, ☒ Grant Funded

Avg. Hours/Week: ☐ 1-5, ☐ 6-10, ☐ 11-15, ☒ 16-20

Requested Start Date: 06/01/26                       Term of Position: ☒ Summer, ☐ Fall, ☐ Spring

We seek a motivated undergraduate student to participate in a summer research project in high energy physics. The student will work closely with a faculty mentor over the course of the summer term, gaining hands-on experience in computational physics, data analysis, and machine learning applications in particle physics.

Responsibilities and Career Competencies:

  Participate in regular research meetings to track progress and discuss results. (C, TW, P, CSD)

  Generate and analyze simulated data using standard computational tools. (CT, T, CSD)

  Learn to run and interpret simulation software using pre-developed input files and benchmark models. (CSD, CT, T)

  Implement and test approaches to assess potential improvements in particle identification. (CT, T, CSD)

  Analyze and compare signal and background data from Large Hadron Collider (LHC) simulations to assess detection sensitivity. (CT, T)

  Contribute to the interpretation of results and preparation of research findings. (C, TW, CT, P)Competencies/Skills: Communication (C), Teamwork (TW), Professionalism (P), Career & Self Development (CSD), Critical Thinking (CT), Community Transformation (CTR), Leadership (L), Technology (T)

Qualifications: Add qualifications needed to be successful in this position.

• Undergraduate student in physics, engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Interest in particle physics, computational methods, or data science.
• Basic familiarity with programming (e.g., Python, C++, or similar) is preferred.
• Strong motivation and willingness to learn new technical skills.

Computer Skills: ☐ Word, ☐ Excel, ☐ PowerPoint, ☐ Canva, ☐ Social Media & New Technology,                    ☒ Other: ___Basic Programming___________

Other Skills: ☒ Attention to detail, ☐ Strong active listening abilities, ☐ Public speaking,                ☒ Written & verbal communication, ☐ Customer focused, ☒ Willingness to learn new things

Work Schedule: ☐ Su ___ to ___; ☐ M ___ to ___; ☐ T ___ to ___; ☐ W ___ to ___; ☐ R ___ to ___;               ☐ F ___ to ___; ☐ Sa ___ to ___; ☒ Hours vary depending on workload (Check days that apply, insert hours if set, otherwise, check “Hours vary depending on workload”.)

Work Conditions: ☐ Heat, ☐ Cold, ☐ Odors/Smoke, ☐ Toxic Agents, ☐ Dust, ☐ Machinery,          ☐ Light Intensity, ☐ Noise, ☐ Vibrations, ☐ Wetness, ☐ Humidity, ☐ Electrical Currents,                ☐ Other: _________________________

Physical Demands: ☒ Keyboarding, ☐ Reaching/Handling, ☐ Stooping/Kneeling,                             ☐ Crouching/Crawling, ☐ Pushing up to ___ lbs., ☐ Pulling up to ___ lbs., ☐ Lifting up to ___ lbs.,     ☐ Carrying up to ___ lbs., ☐ Climbing, ☐ Balancing, ☐ Other: _________________________

Number of Positions: 2

Pay Rate: Stipend $2,795.50, divided into 2 payments (not equal)

Location: Building: _ARM____, Room #: __204___

Application Notes: Resumes and applications will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.