Research Assistant - Technology & Social Change Group
Academic Year 2010-2011

University of Washington Information School




Location
Technology & Social Group - Roosevelt Commons Building

Start Date: 09/16/10
End Date:   06/15/11

This appointment will work an average of 20 hours per week.

Position Description
The Information School has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Assistant in the Technology & Social Change Group (TASCHA), which explores the design, use, and effects of information and communication technologies in communities facing social and economic challenges. Located in the iSchool’s Roosevelt Commons Building in the University District, the TASCHA Group comprises over a dozen faculty, researchers, students, and program staff. With experience in 50 countries, TASCHA brings together a multidisciplinary network of social scientists, engineers, and development practitioners to conduct research, advance knowledge, create public resources, and improve policy and program design. Its purpose is to spark innovation and opportunities for those who need it most.

The successful applicant will assist TASCHA on advancing its current research agendas (current research projects are listed on its website -- tascha.uw.edu) as well as emerging areas of study, including social information literacy, and innovations for library services in the developing world.

The Research Assistant will work with a team of research staff and have the opportunity to gain valuable experience throughout the academic year in several areas (depending on his/her interests and the TASCHA schedule), including most all phases of the research process and system design. Because of the wide variety of ongoing projects, the TASCHA Group is interested in hiring a person who has expertise/experience in the social sciences, public policy, and/or information sciences, software design/data visualization.

Duties include:
  • Work with the Research Lead for the Global Impact Study to design and implement a study investigating the costs and benefits of public access to Information and Communications Technology (ICTs).
  • Review relevant literature and building database of research on the costs and benefits of public access to ICTs
  • Assist with the development of a research proposal, research design, and data collection instruments
  • Assist with training of field researchers
  • Set-up reporting systems to monitor fieldwork
  • Analyze data
  • Write reports and publications
Requirements
  • Must be enrolled in PhD course work at the Information School or Evans School
  • Significant research experience (naturalistic or experimental; mixed methods) OR software design
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Able to work efficiently and independently in a rapidly changing work environment
  • Computer-proficient and comfortable using software applications such as Windows SharePoint Services, Microsoft Office and Outlook, Internet Explorer, and social media
  • Demonstrated experience using research software such as SPSS, SAS, and Atlas.ti.
  • Experience with cost-benefit research design and implementation
  • Familiarity with research in the area of information and communication technologies for development.

Desired qualifications

  • Experience working in a team setting
  • Experience in developing country settings

This position is eligible for a tuition waiver and benefits (percentage of tuition waived will be dependent upon program student is enrolled in). Questions regarding salary and benefits should be directed to Crystal Yost, Assistant HR Manager crystaly@uw.edu  or 206-543-4738.  Students must be enrolled for a minimum of 10 credits to be eligible.

To apply

1.    Please include a cover letter briefly describing your skills and experiences relevant to this type of position in one page or less
2.    Attach a current resume that includes your work history and academic accomplishments

This position is open ONLY to PhD students enrolled at the Information School or Evans School. Please return all application materials to Uli Corner – uparker@uw.edu (please include "RA ICT - TASCHA" in the subject line), no later than September 1, 2010.

 
The University of Washington is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and covered veterans are encouraged to apply.