Research Assistant - Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

The Research Assistant will support ongoing research projects in mathematics education focused on teaching and learning mathematics through real-world contexts. The role involves assisting with tasks such as literature review, data collection and organization, transcription of interviews and classroom discussions, and preliminary qualitative analysis. The position supports multiple related projects, including work with undergraduate students and collaborations with in-service teachers.

This role provides the student with hands-on experience in education research, including exposure to research design, data management, and analysis. The position is intended to support the faculty member’s broader research program while also contributing to the student’s academic and professional development.

Duties and Responsibilities
● Transcribe interviews with in-service teachers accurately while maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information.
● Take detailed notes during project meetings to document discussions, action items, and decisions.
● Review relevant literature on social justice in mathematics education to support project analysis and contextual understanding.
● Assist with database creation by organizing and managing project data and resources for easy access and future reference.
● Assist in qualitative data analysis using appropriate software to code interviews and identify patterns and themes.
● Prepare summaries and reports on research findings to support ongoing analysis and dissemination.
● Contribute to team discussions by sharing insights and reflections on data and literature, aligned with project goals.
● Support presentation preparation for conferences, including organizing data and creating presentation materials.
● Engage respectfully with diverse perspectives and experiences to support diversity and inclusion in the research.

Minimum Qualifications:
● Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills
● Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
● Interest in education, social justice, or qualitative research
● Commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning with the school’s values
● Familiarity with qualitative data analysis software, or willingness to learn (preferred)
● Experience with transcription, literature reviews, or qualitative research (preferred but not required) Preferred Qualifications:
● Experience with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, ATLAS.ti), or a strong willingness to learn
● Previous experience in transcription, coding, or analyzing qualitative data
● Background in education, social sciences, or a related field, with a focus on social justice or equity issues
● Familiarity with academic research methods and terminology
● Strong skills in organizing and synthesizing complex information
● Experience creating presentations or summarizing findings for conferences or academic settings

WORK MODE
Hybrid/Remote - Employees hired for this position primarily work remotely with the occasional on-campus presence required with advanced notice. Employees in this role will also be expected to use their best judgment to be on campus when necessary in order to best fulfill the responsibilities of their job descriptions. #LI-DNI

Hourly Rate - $31.37

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between SENS-UAW, Local 7902 and the University

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Responsibilities:

The Research Assistant will support mathematics education research by assisting with literature reviews, transcription, qualitative data analysis, data management, and research reporting for projects focused on teaching mathematics through real-world contexts and social justice. This role offers hands-on experience in education research while collaborating with faculty, undergraduate students, and educators, and requires strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills with an interest in qualitative research and equity in education.