Student Research Assistant - Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering
$17.00 per hour, plus 4% vacation pay
May 4 – August 7, 2026
Dr. Senthilkumar Thiruppathi is seeking one undergraduate student research assistant to support the design and prototyping of a standalone opto-mechanical imaging system for blemish detection in frozen French fries. The project involves development of a table-top inspection unit for controlled RGB image acquisition, prototype refinement, and SOP development for repeatable imaging and calibration in an industrial quality-control setting.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design and refine a closed-enclosure imaging prototype using SolidWorks
- Prepare CAD models, assemblies, and fabrication-ready drawings
- Assist with prototyping, assembly, and testing of lighting and camera configurations
- Evaluate prototype performance for repeatability, glare control, shadow reduction, and image quality
- Assist with calibration workflow development and technical documentation, including SOPs and testing records
- Support integration of the imaging setup with an existing machine vision and machine learning workflow
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must be an undergraduate engineering student currently enrolled at ÌÇÐÄvlog´«Ã½
- Preference will be given to students in Sustainable Design Engineering or a closely related field
- Strong SolidWorks skills in part modelling, assemblies, and technical drawings are required
- Experience with prototype design, fabrication, or hands-on mechanical build work is preferred
- Experience with 3D printing, laser cutting, or related engineering tools is an asset
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and technical communication skills are required
- Interest in mechanical design, automation, machine vision, or applied industrial R&D is preferred
Priority will be given to ÌÇÐÄvlog´«Ã½ students in accordance with Recruitment, Selection, Hiring and Employment Policies and the Procedures manual.
Please submit electronically a cover letter, quoting the competition number, a resume and reference list to be received no later than the closing date via the link below.
If you are unable to apply online, you can drop off your resume to the Human Resources Department, Kelley Building, ÌÇÐÄvlog´«Ã½, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PEI C1A 4P3, Fax Number 902-894-2895.
ÌÇÐÄvlog´«Ã½ is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation and believes in providing a positive learning and working environment where every person feels empowered to contribute. ÌÇÐÄvlog´«Ã½ is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. If you require accommodation in any part of the process, please direct your inquiries, in confidence, to our HR Officer, hrofficer@upei.ca. Applications will not be accepted via email.
Only those applicants who are invited to an interview will be acknowledged.
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