Undergraduate Urban Heat Summer Research Assistant (Student)

American University•Washington, DC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is available only to enrolled American University students. The Undergraduate Field Research Assistant will support an urban heat field study conducted in partnership with the DC Department of Transportation. The position involves collecting meteorological measurements at sites across Washington, DC during the summer under the direction of a graduate research assistant. The ideal candidate is dependable, comfortable working outdoors in hot conditions for extended periods, and eager to gain hands-on experience in environmental field research. Availability for two short sessions in summer 2026 is preferred, though candidates available for only one session will also be considered.

Requirements

Enrolled AU undergraduate student in good academic standing.
Reliability and punctuality are essential; field operations depend on full team availability.
Ability to work outdoors in hot and humid summer conditions for extended periods.
Comfortable working on or near public streets in an urban environment.
Attention to detail and ability to follow standardized procedures consistently.

Nice To Haves

Prior research or fieldwork experience is an asset but not required.

Responsibilities

Operate handheld infrared thermometers to measure surface temperatures at designated grid points within each study plot.
Complete field survey forms accurately, recording site conditions, shading, and any notable observations at each measurement point.
Assist the graduate research assistant with instrument setup, deployment, and pack-down at each site.
Transport field equipment within study plots using a wheeled field cart.
Follow all standardized measurement protocols as directed by the graduate research assistant.
Assist with equipment preparation and loading before field days.
Support data entry and basic quality checks following field sessions as needed.
Communicate any equipment issues or site concerns to the graduate research assistant promptly.