Research Assistantship - Center for Information and Society

Position Title
Research Assistant
IPAI project at the Center for Information & Society

Start Date: 10/16/08
End Date: 6/15/09

This is a 9 month academic year appointment and will average 20 hours per week.

Position Description
The Center for Information & Society (CIS) is a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research center focusing on the impact of information and communication technologies on different aspects of society. Our mission is to provoke discussion; engage policymakers; and empower communities, public and private organizations and enterprises, governments, and individuals to make knowledgeable and well-considered decisions. The CIS is currently seeking a research assistant to support one of the Center’s projects.

The RA will assist in a project titled Investigating the Social and Economic Impact of Public Access to Information and Communication Technology (IPAI), a five-year, $7.2 million research project sponsored by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The project is managed by telecentre.org in partnership with the Center for Information & Society at the University of Washington Information School.

The RA will participate in a variety of project activities including:
• Perform literature reviews
• Update and maintain research databases
• Monitor and maintain online communication tools
• Data collection and analysis (both qualitative and quantitative)

Requirements
• Background in international studies, public affairs, communication, information science, sociology, or related field
• Knowledge of social science research methods (qualitative and quantitative)
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Computer-proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and online collaboration tools such wikis, blogs, and online databases (i.e., World Bank)

Desirable Skills and Qualifications
• Knowledge in the field of ICT and development
• Web page management (Microsoft Expression Web, FTP)
• Database maintenance and/or design
• Desktop publishing

This position is open to all graduate level students enrolled in the University of Washington as of autumn quarter 2008. During autumn quarter, this position will not be eligible for a tuition waiver. The RA will be able to get a tuition waiver for winter and spring quarters. The percentage of tuition covered is dependent upon the program the student is enrolled in. Questions regarding salary and benefits should be directed to Crystal Yost, Human Resources Coordinator crystaly@u.washington.edu or 206-543-4738. Students must be enrolled for a minimum of 10 credits each quarter to be eligible.

To apply
Please submit the following application materials to Crystal Yost at iApply@u.washington.edu (please include “IPAI Research Assistant” in the subject line) or to Mary Gates Hall, Suite 370:

1. Please include a cover letter describing your skills and experiences relevant to the position.
2. Attach a current resume that includes your work history and academic accomplishments.
3. A writing sample (i.e., a term paper or a prior paper submitted for publication)

The deadline to apply is Friday, October 10, 2008. All candidates will be contacted within four weeks of closing date. The strongest candidates will be contacted to participate in interviews.