Research Assistant

Special Instructions to Applicants : All interested applicants must attach a cover letter and a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application in a PDF format . Please note that the applicant tracking system does not convert attachments in Word format successfully.

Position Summary

The Research Assistant is primarily responsible for supporting the research projects and activities underway within the Baker Institute’s Science and Technology Policy program and the Center for Health and Biosciences. The research assistant supports scheduling, event planning, and manuscript development including reviewing sources and editing text; shares program activities via social media; communicates with external stakeholders; and contributes to the development of the program’s dynamic digital archive.

The full-time position is term-limited with a duration of up to two years (one year with the possibility of a one-year extension).

Ideal candidates will be familiar with the U.S. policy-making process and the biomedical field.

Founded in 1993, Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy has established itself as one of the premier nonpartisan public policy think tanks in the country. As an integral part of Rice University, the Baker Institute has a strong track record of achievement based on the work of its fellows, scholars, Rice faculty scholars and staff.

Essential Functions

• Conducts literature reviews, inspects manuscript references, and proofreads and edits drafts of research publications and related content
• Synthesizes research, activities, and current developments to draft social media posts
• Contributes to the development of the dynamic digital archive by scanning, tagging and organizing archival materials
• Assists institute staff in the organization of events, webinars, and lectures with distinguished speakers
• Performs other duties as assigned

Additional Functions / Information

• Coordinates meetings and social activities
• Supports outreach to external stakeholders such as potential speakers, event co-organizers and other third parties
• Assists managing student interns
• Supports procurement of research materials

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 1 year of professional research experience
• Proven research skills
• Demonstrated writing ability; editing experience preferred
• Strong organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including Excel

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Familiarity with policy and ethical discussions surrounding science and technology
• Understanding of biomedical research topics like stem cell research and vaccines
• Interest in public understanding of science and science advice to federal and state government and other policymakers.

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels, and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

Current Rice University COVID policies, which include vaccination, face mask, testing, gatherings, occupancy limits, and travel policies can be found here: https://coronavirus.rice.edu/policies