Teachers College - Jobs - Job Details - Research Assistant

Posting Summary:
The CCRC Research Assistant provides support to CCRC research teams. Tasks include supporting research logistics, retrieving and reviewing research literature, and contributing to written products. As needed the research assistant may also provide support to the CCRC administration. Requirements include proficiency using Excel and strong communications skills. Candidates should be resourceful, detail-oriented, dependable, and have a well-articulated interest in higher education and issues of access to and success in postsecondary education.

For information about CCRC’s current research activities, mission, and values, please visit ccrc.tc.columbia.edu.

Job Summary/Basic Function:
CCRC is seeking a part-time Research Assistant to support quantitative research projects in the transitions program area. Current work in this area focuses on access, transition to and completion of degrees of high value and its potential to foster social mobility and economic opportunities, particularly among underserved populations. The position’s responsibilities include supporting senior staff, participating in data collection, management, and analysis, and assisting in the preparation of project-related reports, presentations, and publications. Candidates should have experience working with large datasets, have a strong background in quantitative methods, and have demonstrated skills using data analytic tools such as Excel, Stata, R and/or Tableau. Prior experience in project management is strongly desired.

Data management, collection, and analysis

• Lead data cleaning and coding
• Use data analysis software or data organizing techniques to manage and analyze data
• Co-lead data analysis using data analytics and data visualization software's
• Extrapolate research findings from data analysis
• Ensure data documentation, organization, and security
• Research planning and management 
• Co-lead aspects of the design of existing research projects
• Maintain records related to the progress of research and activities
• Assist with the organization and execution of research team meetings (e.g., draft agendas, organize formal note-taking and task-setting)
• Contribute to team meetings in substantive ways
• Independently respond to internal and external requests for information
• Participate in project updates for funders

Writing 

• Draft and revise analytic memos and reports
• Contribute to the development of report storylines
• Co-author study reports and other written products
• Participate in the CCRC internal paper review process

Dissemination and Public Relations 

•  Present research findings at meetings and conferences under the supervision of senior project staff

CCRC Service

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

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, education policy, statistics or equivalent degrees. Graduate studies in any of these areas is strongly desired.
• Experience with managing data and quantitative/statistical software
• Advanced proficiency with Excel, Stata, R, and/or Tableau
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint
• Experience drafting and revising research papers and articles, either independently or as part of a team
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills
• 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

Preferred Qualifications:

•  Knowledge of community colleges, higher education, and issues of access to and success in postsecondary education
•  Demonstrated experience creating data analytics and data visualization tools.
•  Graduate-level coursework in economic policy or program evaluation

Salary Range:

$34.00 - $34.00

Work Modality:

Hybrid