Molecular Paleontology Undergraduate Research Assistant
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND, USA
USD 18-18 / hour
Posted on Jan 31, 2026
Molecular Paleontology Undergraduate Research Assistant
- 497664
- Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States
- Institutional Student
- Closing on: Feb 27 2026
Salary/Position Classification
- $18.00 hourly, Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
- 10 hours per week
- 100% Remote Work Availability: No
- Hybrid Work Availability (requires some time on campus): No
Purpose of Position
This is a part-time, non-benefited position. Only UND students are eligible to be hired in this position.
Dr. Paul Ullmann in the Harold Hamm School of Geology and Geological Engineering, is seeking an
undergraduate research assistant to assist with a project exploring the decay of the bone structural protein
collagen, as part of his funded CAREER award from the National Science Foundation. The project's overall goal
is to determine which parts of the collagen protein molecule break down in what order, what rate they decay,
where they degrade in bone tissue first, and to explain observed patterns in these datasets.
Duties & Responsibilities
- The Molecular Paleontology Undergraduate Research Assistant will help Dr. Ullmann and his doctoral student break down fragments of modern, naturally weathered deer antler bone in acid, then help them perform immunofluorescence (a molecular biology assay) to map the distribution of the protein collagen through the bone tissue of each degraded sample.
- The Research Assistant will also help image and interpret the final results.
Minimum Requirements
- Familiarity with molecular biology analyses in the study of proteins, DNA, or other biologic molecules would
be considered advantageous. Otherwise, no prior training is required, all methodological training will be
provided by Dr. Ullmann and his doctoral student after hiring. - Applicants should be undergraduates enrolled in-person in either Molecular & Integrative Biology, Biology,
Geology, or Fisheries & Wildlife Biology as a portion of their degree, either as a major or minor. - Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.
To Apply
For full consideration, applications must be received by the closing date and include the following materials:
- Cover Letter including a maximum of 500 words explaining any relevant prior experience (such as courses
taken, lab experience, relevant personal experiences) - How participating in this project could help the applicant advance toward their graduation and/or future career goals.
Please include in the application if you are currently or have in the past 12 months been employed with the University of North Dakota, the North Dakota University System or any other North Dakota State agency. If so, include which agency/department, as well as how many hours you work a week.
Career Services is here to help students looking for student employment positions at UND by offering individual sessions that include resume, cover letter reviews, and interview preparation. Please schedule an appointment through Hawk Central or email us at und.careerservices@und.edu.
