Undergraduate Research Assistant — Korak Research Group

The Korak Research Group is seeking a highly motivated undergraduate student to assist with laboratory analyses supporting research on water treatment and environmental chemistry. This position is ideal for a student who enjoys detailed laboratory work, problem-solving, and working with analytical instrumentation.

The successful candidate will support ongoing research projects through routine sample analysis, data quality assurance, and instrument operation while gaining valuable hands-on experience with advanced environmental analytical methods.

Responsibilities

  • Operate analytical instrumentation under supervision including:
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
  • Ion Chromatography (IC)
  • Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) analysis
  • Dissolved nitrogen analysis
  • Fluorescence spectroscopy
  • Absorbance spectroscopy
  • Prepare samples and standards according to established protocols
  • Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and laboratory safety requirements
  • Perform routine calibration, quality control, and quality assurance checks
  • Organize, process, and document analytical data
  • Assist graduate students and faculty with environmental engineering research projects

Desired Qualifications

We welcome applicants with:

  • A major in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field
  • Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills
  • Ability to carefully follow protocols and maintain accurate records
  • Interest in laboratory-based environmental research
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including data organization and basic analysis
  • Interest in learning MATLAB for data processing workflows
  • Prior laboratory experience is beneficial but not required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Completion of one or more laboratory chemistry, environmental chemistry, or analytical chemistry courses
  • Previous experience working with scientific instrumentation
  • At least one year remaining at CU Boulder before graduation to allow for longer-term participation in the research group

Time Commitment

  • Approximately 5–10 hours per week during the academic year
  • Flexible scheduling around coursework with some regular availability on Tuesdays and Thursdays
  • Opportunity for continued involvement in future semesters and summer based on performance and project needs

What You Will Gain

Students in this position will:

  • Earn $18-20/hr commensurate with experience
  • Receive training on advanced environmental analytical instrumentation
  • Gain experience with laboratory quality assurance and quality control procedures
  • Develop technical data management and analysis skills
  • Learn research workflows used in academic and professional laboratories
  • Work closely with graduate students and faculty researchers
  • Build a strong foundation for graduate school, industry, consulting, or laboratory careers

How to Apply

Please send the following materials as a single PDF:

  1. Resume or CV
  2. Unofficial transcript
  3. A brief statement (250–500 words) describing:
  • Your interest in environmental research
  • Relevant coursework and laboratory experience
  • Career goals
  • Why this position interests you

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Questions and application materials should be sent to:

Dr. Julie Korak
Assistant Professor, Environmental Engineering
University of Colorado Boulder

Posted Aug. 21, 2026