The Community College Research Center (CCRC) at Teachers College, Columbia University, studies community colleges because they provide critical access to postsecondary education and are uniquely positioned to promote equity and social mobility in the United States. Our mission is to conduct research that helps these institutions strengthen opportunities and improve outcomes for their students, particularly those from underserved populations. 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 full-time Project Assistant to work closely with 1-2 lead researchers and support research teams on activities related to research planning, data collection and analysis, writing, field engagement and dissemination, and fundraising. This position is distinct in that the Project Assistant contributes to the full spectrum of research development and management activities under the mentorship of senior staff while gaining valuable, hands-on experience conducting qualitative research and disseminating findings. It provides a springboard to careers in research or other analytical occupations or to graduate training in education, social sciences, law, and other disciplines. Candidates should be inquisitive, detail-oriented, strong time managers, clear and responsive communicators, and able to work effectively in teams. They should also be committed to continuous learning and improving work processes. This position is ideal for individuals who are considering graduate school but who seek 2-3 years of work experience first.

This is a hybrid position based in New York City and requires some travel. Please find the application link at ccrc.tc.columbia.edu/employment and include a cover letter and resume.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

Research Planning and Team Coordination

• Contribute to the coordination of project launch activities, including developing task lists and timelines and putting in place progress monitoring systems
• Help draft research documents, such as prospectus, data collection instruments, and institutional review board applications
• Help coordinate and participate in project team meetings (e.g., set agenda, facilitate, take notes, engage in discussion)
• Identify, critically review, and synthesize empirical or methodological literature relevant to the project
• Contribute to the identification and recruitment of research sites.

Data Collection and Analysis

• Contribute to updated data collection procedures (i.e., fieldwork guidelines) and provide team members training on procedures as warranted
• Help schedule and coordinate fieldwork
• Participate on interview and observation teams by notetaking, completing observation protocols, and co-leading interviews and focus groups as warranted
• Support the cataloging, secure storage, and cleaning of collected data
• Contribute to the data analysis process, including developing codebooks and code definitions
• Extrapolate research findings from data analysis in conjunction with team members.

Communication and Writing

• Respond to internal and external requests for information as requested
• Draft and revise fieldwork notes, site reports, analysis memos, and other summaries of data and findings
• Contribute to written deliverables (i.e., reports and briefs) as a member of project writing teams.

Project Development, Fundraising, and Reporting

• Assist senior researchers in developing new project ideas and identifying potential funders
• Manage funding proposal timelines and checklists and coordinate proposal activities, such as reaching out to potential research partners with requests related to participation in proposed projects
• Compile, format, and proofread proposal documents, including CVs, references, human subject narratives, data management plans, and research narratives
• Assist with preparing project updates for funders
• Help coordinate with the CCRC finance team to complete and submit funder progress reports.

Dissemination

• Help prepare conference proposal submissions and present research findings at meetings and conferences
• Provide organizational support for meetings, webinars, institutes, and/or workshops
• Help to create, edit, and format outreach materials, slide decks, and participant materials for field engagement activities

CCRC Service

• Participate in Center events and professional development activities
• As requested, serve on working groups to support CCRC’s organizational priorities and equity mission
• Other duties may be assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (or the equivalent in education, training and experience)
• Ability to anticipate problems and deliver outside-the-box, timely solutions to meet team objectives
• Exhibit curiosity, take ownership of individual growth, and actively engage in feedback
• Outstanding communication and analytical skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with peers and external partners
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, including the ability to work independently and balance multiple project deadlines
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with or interest in community colleges and/or postsecondary education policy is preferred.

We encourage you to apply even if you meet some, but not all, of the requirements listed.