Hrly Graduate Student

Hrly Graduate Student

Job Summary

The Genetic Science Learning Center (GSLC) at the University of Utah is a world-renowned team dedicated to making science and health accessible to everyone. Our Learn.Genetics and Teach.Genetics websites are accessed globally, accounting for one-third of utah.edu's annual traffic.
We are seeking a highly motivated Graduate Student Research Assistant to join our dynamic research team. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research projects focused on biology education, funded by prestigious grants. Our work aims to enhance the teaching and learning of biology at various educational levels through innovative research methodologies.
Our work primarily involves mixed methods approaches. The successful candidate will have basic skills in qualitative data analysis and common statistical techniques for quantitative data analysis; more advanced data analysis skills are welcomed. Strong English writing skills are needed, along with the ability to tailor one's writing style to the audience who will read a document. Effective communication skills are essential since the person in this position interacts with a broad range of individuals on the GSLC team as well as multiple collaborating partners, including (but not limited to) students and trainees, educators, community members, healthcare personnel, science center and museum staff, library staff, and faculty. The successful candidate will be an integral part of our interdisciplinary team, working closely with faculty members, fellow researchers, and education professionals. This role provides an excellent platform for developing advanced research skills, gaining hands-on experience in mixed methods research, and contributing to impactful studies in the field of biology education.
About the Genetic Science Learning Center at the University of Utah
Our mission is “making science and health easy for everyone to understand.” The educational materials we develop and study aim to educate middle and high school students and teachers, patients, and community members. Through courses, workshops, and conferences, we train others to use our materials and bring science educators together to share ideas and resources. In addition to our own projects, the GSLC collaborates with faculty across the University and at other institutions to develop and study educational materials and programs that address all areas of life science, health, and a broad range of other fields.
Our projects require a collaborative, team-based approach from planning through materials production and testing with end users. Our multi-talented team of 18 includes instructional designers, science and health writers, curriculum developers, professional developers, graphic designers, multimedia artists, videographer, music composer and sound designer, web and software developers, evaluators, and science education researchers, along with project management and administrative personnel.

Responsibilities
• Collaborate effectively with diverse team members and external partners• Conduct literature reviews• Experience with mixed methods research design• Proficiency in data analysis software (SAS, Excel, NVIVO)• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills• Produce clear, audience-tailored written reports and presentations• Contribute to manuscripts/papers• Familiarity with IRB procedures and research ethics• Present findings at professional conferences• Meet project deadlines and effectively manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environmentHybrid part-time schedule

Minimum Qualifications


Preferences
• Currently enrolled in a graduate program (Master's or Ph.D.) in Biology, Education, Science Education, Social Science, Education, Public Health, or a related area, or equivalency• Passionate about improving biology education and committed to educational research• Equipped with a strong foundation in biology concepts and familiarity with current trends in biology education• Completed basic coursework in both qualitative data analysis and quantitative statistics/measurement• Familiar with mixed methods research design and its application in educational settings• Proficient in using data analysis software for both qualitative (e.g., NVivo) and quantitative (e.g., SPSS, R) analyses• Excellent at managing time, organizing tasks, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced research environment• A clear and effective communicator, both in writing and verbally• Able to work collaboratively in a team setting while also capable of independent work• Adaptable and eager to learn new research methodologies and tools as needed• Ability to meet project deadlines and manage competing priorities• Genuinely enjoys collaborative work, actively participates in team discussions, and values both giving and receiving constructive feedback
Professional Development OpportunitiesThis position offers numerous opportunities for professional growth, including:

• Mentorship from experienced researchers
• Participation in research design and implementation
• Co-authorship on peer-reviewed publications
• Presentation of findings at national conferences
• Networking with professionals in the fields of biology and education
• Development of transferable skills valuable in academic and industry settings

Special Instructions


Requisition Number: PRN15191N
Full Time or Part Time? Part Time
Work Schedule Summary:
Department: 01527 - Genetic Science Learning CTR
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: 22.00 to 26.00
Close Date:
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/170341


jeid-158e41a4f7d5f346a05bfef84cda38a0