Job Description

Position Title

Program Specialist II

Job Group

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience

Job Description

Summary

The University Honors program at Iowa State University is looking for a Program Coordinator for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (Program Specialist II). This role supports the University’s research mission by coordinating undergraduate research (UR) initiatives at Iowa State University. This position will assist in developing programs and collaborative partnerships with colleges and departments to maintain a robust UR program. The individual will meet and coach students on how to participate in undergraduate research opportunities on the Iowa State University campus; coordinate REU-related activities; oversee two annual events - Research in the Capitol and the Undergraduate Symposium on Research and Creative Expression; support the First-Year Honors Mentor Program, and advise students on research projects and coordinates research awards within the university Honors Program.

Responsibilities include, but aren't limited to:

• Collaborate with the Honors Director(s) to launch new undergraduate research initiatives.
• Maintain data on undergraduate researchers, e.g., how many students and mentors from each college
• Meet with ISU students who have general questions concerning undergraduate research
• Serve as a resource for students considering research opportunities
• Manage undergraduate research website and other social media outlets
• Coordinate university-wide undergraduate programs
• Assist with management of the University Honors Program First-Year Research Mentor Program
• Assist with the management of awards and grants

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in STEM field
• Experience with undergraduate or graduate research, capstone, or thesis writing
• Experience with undergraduate student advising and/or programming

For more information about the University Honors program , please visit: https://www.undergradresearch.iastate.edu/about or https://www.honors.iastate.edu/research

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please Note: To receive full consideration, applications should be received by October 11, 2026.

Why Choose Iowa State University?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year

12 Month Work Period

Time Type

Full time

Pay Grade

PS807

Original Posting Date

September 28, 2026

Posting Close Date

Job Requisition Number

R19975

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.