Working Title: Student Research Assistants: OAT Lab - IE
State Role Title: Institutional Employment/Federal Work Study
Position Type: Institutional Employment
Position Status: Part-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime
College/Division: College of Science and Mathematics
Department: 100026 - Mathematics and Statistics
Pay Rate: Hourly
Specify Range or Amount: $15/hour
Is this a JMU only position? N/A
Is this a grant-funded position? Yes. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon continued funding.
Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? N/A
Beginning Review Date: 09/29/2025

GENERAL INFORMATION:

The JMU Optimization & Algorithmic Theory (OAT) Lab is looking for up to four (4) student research assistants (RAs) to join our team! The OAT lab performs research on the theoretical analysis and computational implementation of optimization algorithms. Please see the OAT Lab webpage to learn more about our research: https://zevwoodstock.github.io/oatlab/
We accept applications from all majors, and we value the breadth of expertise that comes with cross-disciplinary teams. Specific work hours (timing and quantity) are flexible, but there is a maximum of 20 hours per week for the Spring semester. If the research assistant makes satisfactory progress on their project, there is an option to extend this position to full-time in the summer upon mutual agreement of the RA and the PI. This position is funded by the National Science Foundation (Award #DMS-2532423).

QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED: Most of our projects require some knowledge of linear algebra, calculus (sequences/series), programming, proofs, and optimization. However, there is no expectation to know all of these topics at the beginning - just an eagerness to learn.
PREFERRED: very reliable, willing to learn, programming expertise, basic understanding of linear algebra, good grades in math, and experience/interest in (theory and/or implementation of) optimization algorithms. Prior experience typesetting in LaTeX is helpful, but not required.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

1. Conduct theoretical and/or computational research on optimization, as directed by the Principal Investigator (PI).
2. Maintain weekly or bi-weekly meetings with the PI.
3. Contact the PI if unsolvable issues arise in the research project.
4. Independently learn the mathematical and/or programming concepts required for the assigned research project.
5. Program algorithms, tests, and problems related to optimization in relation to assigned research project(s) AND/OR work towards deriving new theoretical results related to the assigned research project(s).
6. Write an end-of-semester report that details research results and/or code documentation.
7. Prepare materials (slides, posters, etc.) for academic conferences or public outreach.