Department: Computer Science & Engineering Technology
Location: Engineering & Aviation Sciences Building
Reports To: Dr. Lizhou Cao, Assistant Professor in Computer Science, Gaming, and Software Engineering
Job Summary: Two to four graduate students to support an NSF-funded project aimed at improving STEM
student engagement and retention through immersive virtual reality learning. The role involves advanced
coding, instructional support, and participation in research activities under faculty supervision.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design and implementation of the multi-user virtual reality (VR) learning platform
- Assist in the development of the VR-based learning framework to support interactive and immersive
education - Assist in the development and refinement of VR learning modules
- Supervise lab sessions and assist with instructional support
- Provide tutoring to undergraduate students
- Participate in research tasks, including data analysis and documentation
- Collaborate with faculty and project team members
Core Requirements:
- Strong programming skills (Python, C/C++, or any high-level language)
- Ability to learn new tools quickly and adapt to project needs
- Good problem-solving skills and logical thinking
- Teamwork and communication skill
Preferred/Nice to Have:
- Familiarity with Unity, C#, or other game engines
- Experience with 3D applications or graphics (e.g., Blender, Maya, Unreal)
- Exposure to VR/AR development (Oculus, SDK, OpenXR, etc.)
- Understanding of computer graphics concepts (rendering, shaders, 3D math)
- Interest in educational technologies, games, or human-computer interaction
Hours: 10-30 hours a week for Winter/Summer Terms and 10-20 hours a week for Spring/Fall Terms
Pay: $20.00/hour
To Apply (Applications will be accepted until the position is filled): You must complete and submit a Student
Employment Application to the Department of Human Resources by following the steps below:
- Visit www.umes.edu/hr
- Select Talent Acquisition
- Select Students
- Select Student Employment Website
- Select Student Workship Application
- Email the application to mvames@umes.edu
