Student Research Assistant

About the role

This position is for a Student Research Assistant in the Fowler School of Engineering for the 2026–2027 academic year. The role is open to undergraduate students and involves up to 19 hours per week. The anticipated pay range is $18.00 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a fiber-optic stress sensor, including working with optical fiber and lasers.
• Integrate photonic integrated circuit components into the overall design of the stress sensor.
• Write and maintain software for controlling components of the stress sensor, collecting data, and displaying the results.
• Analyze experimental data and iterate on experiments based on the results.
• Design and manufacture testing fixtures that enable reliable compression of samples.
• Attend weekly 1-on-1 meetings with Dr. Harrison to discuss project progress and next steps.
• Participate in weekly lab group meetings to discuss relevant scientific topics, including occasional presentations.

Required Qualifications

• Current Chapman undergraduate student.
• Able and willing to commit 10–19 hours per week during the summer (hours are flexible).
• Able to manage tasks and work independently.
• Organized, responsible, and able to keep deadlines.
• Curious and willing to learn more about the field of optics and photonics.
• Interested in learning more about the process of scientific research.

Desired Qualifications

• Student in Engineering or Physics discipline.
• Able to commit to at least 1 year of working in the lab.
• Student who is interested in applying to graduate school of engineering or physics.