Graduate Research Assistant
Northern Illinois University
This job at a glance
- Who can apply
- New grads, no experience needed
- Must know
- Stakeholder managementData analysisSpring
- Work
- On-site in DeKalb
- Pay
- Not stated by the employer.
- Skill demand
- Data analysis13%Stakeholder management11%Spring1%of 99 similar entry-level jobs posted in the US this week
- Listed
- Oct 29, 2026 · still open
Sign in free to see which of these skills your resume already shows.
About the Role
Paid Research Assistant position within the NIU Bioplastics Lab connected to the Master of Science in Engineering Technology program at Northern Illinois University. Position begins January 2027.
Key Responsibilities
- Gain hands-on experience beyond standard course syllabus.
- Contribute to publishable research where appropriate based on contribution.
- Collaborate with industry partners.
- Build connections with industry and government stakeholders.
- Attend regional and national conferences.
- Work directly on high-impact topics in bioplastics, biocomposites, polymer processing, and sustainable materials.
- Contribute to both research and hands-on laboratory work.
- Support experimental research.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Strong technical background.
- Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
- Familiarity with plastic processing and production equipment, such as extrusion, compounding, compression molding, injection molding, or related machinery.
Qualifications
- Background in materials engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, engineering technology, or a closely related field.
- Knowledge of bioplastics, biocomposites, polymers, and sustainable materials.
- Strong understanding of materials science and polymer processing concepts.
- Experience conducting literature reviews.
- Experience interpreting scientific papers.
- Experience with technical/scientific writing.
- Experience with data analysis.
- Experience with research reporting.
Position is for Spring 2027; deferred start is not available.
Applicants must currently reside in the United States and be able to complete NIU's admission requirements.
University application deadline for domestic applicants: December 10, 2026.
Interested applicants may apply through LinkedIn or email CV/resume, unofficial transcripts, and cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line: Spring 2027 RA Application – NIU Bioplastics Lab.