Teachers College - Jobs - Job Details - FWS: Research Assistant

Posting Summary:
The Community College Research Center (CCRC) is seeking several work study eligible Research Assistants (15-20 hours per week) to support several projects including (1) the development and coordination of a symposium on climate change and implications for workforce training in community colleges; (2) a small-scale qualitative data collection designed to generate insights into the decisions and circumstances of first-generation college students who are no longer enrolled; and (3) identifying best practices to close equity gaps in community colleges.

Job Summary/Basic Function:
The Community College Research Center (CCRC) at Teachers College, Columbia University, studies community colleges because they provide critical access to postsecondary education and are uniquely positioned to promote equity and social mobility in the United States. Our mission is to conduct research that helps these institutions strengthen opportunities and improve outcomes for their students, particularly those from underserved populations.

CCRC is seeking several work study eligible Research Assistants (15-20 hours per week) to support several projects including (1) the development and coordination of a symposium on climate change and implications for workforce training in community colleges; (2) a small-scale qualitative data collection designed to generate insights into the decisions and circumstances of first-generation college students who are no longer enrolled; and (3) identifying best practices to close equity gaps in community colleges.

Candidates should have coursework or experience related to education and/or social science research and have a well-articulated interest in improving access to and success in community colleges and postsecondary education. The position responsibilities include project planning and coordination, data collection and analysis, and writing and dissemination. Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team and to balance multiple project tasks are essential. These positions may begin immediately and are based in New York City, though some work may be done remotely. The salary is competitive.

CCRC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We believe that our diversity is essential to our success, and we aim to cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where all employees are empowered to do their best work.

For information about CCRC’s current research activities, mission, and values, please visit ccrc.tc.columbia.edu. To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and include the hours you are available to work. Applications with missing documents will not be considered.

Responsibilities may include:

Project Planning & Management

• Critically review relevant research
• Participate in drafting and revising research-related documents, such as data collection instruments and Institutional Review Board (IRB) materials
• Participate in project team meetings (e.g., take notes, ask questions)
• Perform project-related tasks such as filing, copying, scheduling, document dissemination, and shipping

Data Collection & Analysis

• Assist with collecting and organizing research data and information
• Conduct interviews and classroom observations under the supervision of senior project staff
• Communicate with research site personnel regarding fieldwork and other project-related activities under the supervision of senior project staff
• Assist senior staff in analyzing and managing research data and information
• Adhere to guidelines on data documentation, organization, and security

Writing and Dissemination

• Contribute to the writing of project publications and reports
• Format papers and clean references, design basic public-facing documents and slides.
• Write social media and blog posts, and make website postings
• As requested, assist senior staff in proposal preparation, including writing literature reviews, and preparation for conference presentations and dissemination activities

CCRC Service

• Participate in Center events and professional development activities
• As requested, serve on working groups to support CCRC’s equity mission

*Only U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens are eligible for this position.
This position is not eligible for tuition credits.

Scheduling
Student work schedules are based upon the needs of the department and the student’s academic schedule. Students should discuss their schedule with the hiring manager/supervisor during the interview process. Hiring managers/supervisors will make every attempt to accommodate students’ needs.

Work Limitations
During the academic year students may not hold appointments or any combination of appointments totaling more than 27 hours per week.

Student Learning Outcomes
Student employees will have the opportunity to develop and/or build on the following competencies while working in this position:

• Career and Self-Development
• Professionalism
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Critical Thinking
• Technology (Software or equipment)
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Coursework or experience related to education or social science research
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills
• Track record of delivering high-quality work product under deadline
• Good judgment, reliability, ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Google Workspace, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Must have been awarded federal work-study for the term in which a work-study position is being sought
• Must be a TC student currently enrolled in a degree program and taking at least 5 credits
• Must be able to abide by Teachers College academic and personnel policies and guidelines, including FERPA, Student Confidentiality Agreement and the Student Privacy Requirements
• A minimum commitment of two semesters.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct experience with community colleges and/or broad access postsecondary institutions (either as a student or employee)
• Experience using Dedoose or other qualitative coding software
• Experience working in a research center or as a member of a research team
• Coursework or experience in quantitative methods

We encourage you to apply even if you meet some, but not all, of the requirements listed.

About CCRC
CCRC at Teachers College is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. CCRC does not discriminate, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race; color; national origin; religion; creed; sex or gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression); sexual orientation; citizenship status; pregnancy; disability; age; military or veteran status; marital or partnership status; genetic information, genetic predisposition, or carrier status; prior unemployment status; consumer credit history; status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking; or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Legal work authorization is required.

Salary Range:

$18

Work Modality:

Hybrid