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Doctoral Assistant Job Description

Job Description: Doctoral Assistant 

Position Title: Doctoral Assistant 
Department: TBA 
Reports to: Principal Investigator (PI) or Faculty Supervisor 
Location: University Campus or Specific Department Location 
Position Type: Part-time/Full-time (Based on departmental needs and funding availability) 

Position Overview: 

The Doctoral Assistant will work closely with faculty members, researchers, or departmental leaders to support various academic, research, and administrative tasks. This position provides an opportunity for doctoral students to gain valuable hands-on experience in their field of study while contributing to ongoing research projects and academic initiatives. 

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Research Support: 

a. Assist in designing, conducting, and analyzing research studies within the department's focus areas. 

b. Perform literature reviews, data collection, and data analysis using qualitative or quantitative research methodologies. 

c. Develop and refine research hypotheses, experimental designs, and protocols in collaboration with faculty. 

  1. Academic Support: 

a. Assist in preparing course materials, presentations, and teaching resources for faculty members. 

b. Provide support to undergraduate and graduate students in their academic and research endeavors, including tutoring and mentorship. 

c. Grade assignments, exams, and provide constructive feedback to students, as needed. 

  1. Administrative and Logistical Assistance: 

a. Coordinate and manage research projects, including scheduling meetings, organizing events, and tracking project milestones. 

b. Maintain accurate records of research activities, compile reports, and assist with preparing manuscripts for publication. 

c. Assist in the preparation and submission of grant proposals and other funding applications. 

  1. Dissemination of Research Findings: 

a. Co-author research papers, articles, and reports to be published in academic journals or presented at conferences. 

b. Present research findings at departmental seminars, workshops, or national/international academic conferences. 

c. Help prepare research presentations, posters, and other materials for public dissemination. 

  1. Collaboration and Communication: 

a. Foster collaborative relationships with fellow researchers, faculty members, and external partners. 

b. Engage actively in departmental meetings, seminars, and collaborative research discussions. 

c. Communicate research progress and project updates to the Principal Investigator (PI) and research team. 

Qualifications: 

  • Education and Eligibility:  

  • Hold a graduate degree, preferably in a field related to the research project or department. 

  • Be enrolled for no more than 12 credits per semester, but no less than 9 credits per semester of graduate study in their program at the university 

  • Be of academic standing consistent with the expectations for the role of graduate or doctoral assistant 

  • Have a 3.5 graduate GPA at Kean after completing at least 9 credits 

Skills: 

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct both independent and collaborative research. 

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in academic writing. 

  • Proficiency in using statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, Stata) or qualitative analysis tools (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti). 

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 

  • Experience: Prior experience in conducting research, teaching, or working in an academic setting is preferred but not required. 

Key Competencies: 

  • Research Expertise: Ability to design, execute, and analyze research projects effectively, with attention to rigorous scientific methods. 

  • Critical Thinking: Capability to evaluate research questions, synthesize findings, and contribute to the development of new knowledge. 

  • Professionalism: Commitment to maintaining ethical research practices, data integrity, and confidentiality. 

Benefits: 

  • Stipend/Salary: Competitive stipend or hourly wage, based on department standards and funding availability. 

  • Career Readiness: Opportunities to gain research and teaching experience, develop academic skills, and build a professional network in the field. 

  • Flexible Work Hours: Schedule designed to accommodate academic commitments and doctoral coursework. 

Application Process: 

Candidates may apply for a Graduate Assistantship when they apply to a Kean University graduate program: 

  1. Check “yes” that you wish to be considered for a GA position 

  1. A cover letter detailing your interest in the position and relevant skills or experience. 

  1. A current CV or resume. 

  1. Contact information for at least two academic or professional references. 

Application Deadline: Open until filled – As this is a rolling process, a student may be contacted before any semester if they wish to interview the student for an open position. 
 
Contact Information: For more information, please contact ga@kean.edu. 

Equal Opportunity Statement: 

Kean University is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. 

This job description outlines the primary responsibilities and qualifications for a Doctoral Assistant, emphasizing opportunities for professional development, research experience, and academic growth in the chosen field of study.