Hrly Graduate Student

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.Responsibilities

Collaborate effectively with diverse team members and external partnersExperience with mixed methods research designProficiency in data analysis software (SAS, Excel, NVIVO)Strong analytical and problem-solving skillsProduce clear, audience-tailored written reports and presentationsContribute to manuscripts/papersFamiliarity with IRB procedures and research ethicsPresent findings at professional conferencesMeet project deadlines and effectively manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environmentMinimum Qualifications

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 equivalencyPassionate about improving biology education and committed to educational researchEquipped with a strong foundation in biology concepts and familiarity with current trends in biology educationCompleted basic coursework in both qualitative data analysis and quantitative statistics/measurementFamiliar with mixed methods research design and its application in educational settingsProficient in using data analysis software for both qualitative (e.g., NVivo) and quantitative (e.g., SPSS, R) analysesExcellent at managing time, organizing tasks, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced research environmentA clear and effective communicator, both in writing and verballyAble to work collaboratively in a team setting while also capable of independent workAdaptable and eager to learn new research methodologies and tools as neededAbility to meet project deadlines and manage competing prioritiesGenuinely enjoys collaborative work, actively participates in team discussions, and values both giving and receiving constructive feedbackProfessional Development Opportunities

This position offers numerous opportunities for professional growth, including:Mentorship from experienced researchersParticipation in research design and implementationCo-authorship on peer-reviewed publicationsPresentation of findings at national conferencesNetworking with professionals in the fields of biology and educationDevelopment of transferable skills valuable in academic and industry settingsSpecial Instructions Summary

Additional InformationThe University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (OEO/AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu

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