Student | Teaching Assistant, Research, AI, Data Innovations, and New Technologies (RADIANT)

University of Notre Dame•Notre Dame, IN

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Imagine spending a summer at the University of Notre Dame, shaping the minds of the most accomplished, intellectually fearless, and mission-driven high school students in the country. This isn't just an aspiration; it is the reality of being a RADIANT Teaching Assistant. RADIANT (Research, AI, Data Innovation, and New Technologies) is one of six prestigious seminars within Notre Dame’s Leadership Seminars program—a 10-day, fully funded residential experience that draws elite applicants from across the globe. With tuition, housing, and meals covered by the University, the program attracts students who are deeply committed to being here. Consequently, the competition to earn a seat is extraordinary. The 2026 RADIANT cohort was selected from 634 applicants, resulting in an admission rate of under 5%. This makes it one of the most selective pre-college programs in the United States. Even within the flagship Leadership Seminars program—which received nearly 3,000 applications with an overall admission rate of 6.5%—RADIANT stands out for its exclusivity. RADIANT is a 10-day, hands-on immersion into AI, data science, and machine learning, led by premier Notre Dame faculty from the Lucy Family Institute for Data & Society. Students begin with the foundations of R programming, data visualization, and analytics, learning to transform raw data into actionable insights. They tackle real-world projects—tracking misinformation, analyzing climate change data, and building machine learning models—before advancing into GIS (Geographic Information Systems), network analysis, and responsible technology. The program culminates in a Capstone Project, where student teams apply their skills to solve a genuine global challenge and present their findings. It is a rigorous, collaborative, and energizing environment where a great TA can leave a lasting impact. RADIANT is led by Associate Prof. Sugana Chawla and Prof. Valentina Kuskova, scholars who combine deep technical expertise with a passion for mentorship. As a TA, you will work alongside them as a genuine partner in the learning experience.

Requirements

Current undergraduate or graduate ND, Saint Mary's, Holy Cross students, or degree seeking students at other U.S. institutions
Demonstrated proficiency in R, Python, or another data science language
Familiarity with data visualization, statistical analysis, or machine learning concepts
Genuine enthusiasm for working with high-achieving high school students
Strong communication, mentoring, and interpersonal skills
Ability to commit to the full program duration

Nice To Haves

Experience with GIS, AI/ML tools, or natural language processing
Prior teaching, tutoring, or youth mentorship experience
Coursework or research in data science, statistics, computer science, or a related field
Familiarity with Notre Dame's mission and values

Responsibilities

Review and familiarize yourself with RADIANT course materials, datasets, and R programming exercises.
Assist faculty in preparing lesson plans, coding labs, and real-world project materials.
Coordinate with the Pre-College Programs office on administrative and logistical needs.
Complete all required University onboarding and training sessions.
Provide real-time assistance during R programming sessions, data visualization labs, and AI/ML workshops.
Guide student teams as they navigate hands-on projects involving misinformation analysis, climate data, and predictive modeling.
Help students debug code, clarify complex concepts, and maintain high engagement during collaborative work sessions.
Partner with program staff to supervise residential and recreational activities.
Guide students through the capstone process, from initial scoping to final presentations.
Serve as an academic and professional mentor, sharing your unique experiences with students beginning their own journeys.
Maintain a safe, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment for all 30 students.
Maintain proactive, clear communication with faculty directors and program staff.
Uphold the mission of the University of Notre Dame and the standards of the Pre-College Programs office.