Job Summary
The undergraduate research assistant will support an interdisciplinary project measuring air and water quality in Flint. This position focuses on making environmental monitoring data accessible to the public by developing a website and automating data updates. The assistant will help build a user-friendly platform that shares sensor readings, connect hardware data streams to the site, and integrate basic AI tools for analysis or visualization.
Responsibilities*
- Design, develop, and maintain a website to disseminate air and water quality data to the community.
- Help with automating the process of collecting, preprocessing, and updating environmental data on the website.
- Collaborate with project faculty and student team members to incorporate sensor input and ensure data integrity.
- Implement basic AI tools for data analysis, visualization, or anomaly detection (with guidance/training as needed).
- Document web development processes and provide guidance for future student contributors.
- Communicate with the project team about progress, issues, and potential improvements.
Required Qualifications*
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan-Flint.
- Academic background in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Experience with basic web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and/or frameworks like Flask or React).
- Coursework or demonstrated experience in introductory programming
- Willingness to learn new technologies and work in a collaborative environment.
Desired Qualifications*
- Strong teamwork, communication, and documentation skills.
- Interest in environmental data, public engagement, and science communication.
- Familiarity with automating data pipelines or web APIs is a plus.
- Experience with basic AI tools, machine learning libraries or visualization platforms (e.g., Tableau, Plotly) is a plus but not required.
- Attention to detail and a proactive problem-solving approach.
- Ability to explain technical ideas clearly to non-programmer audiences.
Modes of Work
Hybrid
The work requirements allow both onsite and offsite work and an employee has an expected recurring onsite presence. On occasion, the employee may be required and must be available to work onsite more frequently if necessitated by unit leadership or their designee and/or the job requirements
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of three calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the fourth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.