Research Assistant for IGERT Evaluation by the Center for Innovation and Research in Graduate Education

IGERTs (Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship) are National Science Foundation-funded interdisciplinary PhD programs which train students to work in interdisciplinary research and problem-solving teams. Professional and personal skill-building, as well as interdisciplinary analysis are core features of the curriculum. CIRGE is seeking a temporary (9/16/08 – 6/15/09), part-time (50% FTE) Research Assistant to help conduct evaluations of what works in these programs, to inform both the program and the larger university community on ways to improve and innovate in graduate education.

Evaluation tasks include conducting and analyzing structured interviews and/or focus groups with students, staff, faculty and others involved in the program; summarizing results of an on-line IGERT student survey; observation and documentation of program activities.

Requirements:

• Academic standing as a UW Graduate Student and eligibility to hold a Graduate Student Assistantship

• Experience in interviewing using a structured interview protocol, and in producing summary notes of the interviews within the next few days. Experience in analyzing interviews.

• Experience in conducting focus group interviews and analyzing interviews.

• Knowledge about human subject protocol requirements in conducting interviews and maintaining confidentiality, obtaining formal written permission from participants, etc. Ability to maintain confidentiality and anonymity with respect to interview, survey, and focus group statements by individuals.

• Good organizational and time management skills to be used in scheduling, and keeping records.

• Ability to work independently on occasion, and willingness to ask for guidance when desired.

• Availability for full appointment time frame (Sept.16th - Jun. 15th)

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

Desired:

• Experience in analyzing group behavior

• Interest in interdisciplinary and/or innovative approaches to graduate education

Condition of Employment:

• Must be a full-time graduate student registered for 10 credits

• Must be a PhD candidate

Terms:
Research Assistants are required to register for a minimum of ten credits per quarter (2 in summer). The salary schedule is available at: Graduate Student Variable RA Rates.

Application Process:
Part of the application process for this position includes completing an on-line cover letter assessment found here as well as the Employment Eligibility Assessment to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. The assessments will appear on your screen for you to complete as soon as you select "Apply to this Position" on the posted job announcement. Once you begin the assessment, it must be completed at that time. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until the assessment is complete.

In the cover letter assessment, please:

• identify strengths you would bring to this position;

• contact information for 2-3 references (name, title, phone, email) familiar with your research abilities.

Preference will be given to applications received by July 22, 2008. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Decisions and notification to all applicants will be communicated by the week of August 4, 2008.