Research Assistant – Immigrant Integration Research Project - Virginia Commonwealth University

About the Project:

Location: Richmond, VA; partially remote

Position Type: Part-time/Temporary: 20 hours/week

Position duration: August 15, 2024 – June 30, 2026

The research project focuses on various aspects of immigrant integration, aiming to understand the socio-economic impacts, challenges, and experiences of immigrants. The project involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting qualitative data to contribute to academic and policy-related discussions on immigration.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a dedicated, organized, and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for data entry, coding, and analysis, assisting with the recruitment and management of participants, and conducting interviews. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in social science research.

Probation period: two months.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Data Entry and Management: 
    - Enter and manage data accurately and efficiently using qualitative software tools.
    - Maintain and update databases to ensure data integrity and accessibility.

2. Coding and Analysis: 
    - Assist in coding qualitative data using appropriate software (e.g., NVivo or Dedoose).
    - Conduct preliminary data analysis and assist in the interpretation of results.
    - Prepare data visualizations and summaries for reports and presentations.

3. Participant Recruitment and Management: 
    - Assist in the recruitment of study participants through various methods (e.g., online platforms, community outreach).
    - Manage participant records and ensure confidentiality and ethical standards are maintained.
    - Schedule and coordinate interviews and other research activities with participants.

4. Conducting Interviews: 
    - Conduct interviews with study participants following the project’s protocols.
    - Ensure the accurate and thorough documentation of interview responses.
    - Transcribe interviews and prepare them for analysis.

5. Administrative Support: 
    - Provide general administrative support to the research team as needed.
    - Assist in preparing research materials and documentation.

Required Qualifications:

 -   Education:   A bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, or a related field. Master’s and Ph.D. students are encouraged to apply.

-   Experience:   Previous experience in a research setting, particularly with data entry, coding, and analysis is preferred. Experience with participant recruitment and conducting interviews is highly desirable.

-   Technical Skills:   Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., NVivo or Dedoose) or willingness to learn it. Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

-   Communication Skills:   Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to interact professionally with participants and team members.

-   Organizational Skills:   Strong organizational skills with attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

-   Ability to support a diverse faculty, staff, and student experience and environment at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications: 

-    -   Bilingual or multilingual abilities.

Typical Physical and Cognitive Requirements:

Physical Demands and Activities (Essential):

Light lifting (<20 lbs.)                                                                                                                     

Pushing/pulling

Standing

Sitting

Emotional Demands (Essential):

Fast pace/Average pace

Multiple stimuli    

Frequent change

Intense customer interaction

Mental/Sensory Demands (Essential):

Memory

Reading                                                                                                                                               

Reasoning                                                                                                                                             

Hearing                                                                                                                                             

Logic                                                                                                                                                      

Analyzing

Verbal communication

Written Communication

Application Process:

To apply, please submit the following:

1. A cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications for the position.

2. A current resume or CV.

3. A copy of your academic transcripts

4. Contact information for two academic and/or professional references.

Deadline:  September 1, 2024 

Contact Information: 

For questions regarding this position, please contact Dr. Saltanat Liebert at sliebert@vcu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer: 

VCU is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Salary Range: $18-23/hour depending on experience and qualifications

Position Details:

Department: L. D. Wilder School/Public Administration Program
Employment Type: H1 - Hourly
Restricted Status: Yes
FTE: .50
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Contact Information:

Contact Name: Saltanat Liebert

Contact Email: sliebert@vcu.edu

Contact Phone: (804) 828-1874