Student Research Assistant

Chapman University Careers • Irvine, CA

1d

About The Position

The overall goal of the research project is to develop a fiber-optic stress sensor into a more compact, more useful device. This will be accomplished by miniaturizing elements of the device by designing a photonic integrated circuit and accompanying circuit board. Later, the device will be developed for parallel measurements, which will entail redesigning a test fixture. Throughout these developments, the device will be used to measure compressive stress-strain curves for visco-elastic materials. This project will allow students to learn about optics and photonics while applying circuit design and some mechanical engineering to a novel system. Broad areas that this research explores include electromagnetic physics, materials science, and electrical engineering. This device will hopefully be used for medical applications and testing diseased tissue for better diagnosis and prognosis.

Requirements

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Setting up and operating a fiber-optic stress sensor, which includes working with optical fiber and lasers.
• Integrating photonic integrated circuit components into the overall design of the stress sensor.
• Writing and maintaining software for controlling components of the stress sensor, collecting data, and displaying the results.
• Analyzing experimental data and iterating on experiments based on the results.
• Design and manufacture testing fixtures that enable reliable compression of samples.
• Weekly 1-on-1 meetings with Dr. Harrison to discuss the state of your project and next steps.
• Participating in weekly lab group meetings to discuss relevant scientific topics, including occasional presentations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED