Research Assistant

Mercer University; North Carolina; On-site; USD 27,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Mercer University is seeking a detail-oriented Research Assistant to support our Community Medicine research projects on a part-time basis. Responsibilities include literature reviews, interviews, focus groups, windshield surveys, and data analysis, with emphasis on accurate data collection and reporting.

The ideal candidate is currently enrolled in the PhD program in Rural Health Sciences, has excellent communication skills, and can manage multiple tasks while maintaining confidentiality.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in the PhD program in Rural Health Sciences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining teamwork and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews to gather information for research projects.
• Collaborate with the team to develop research methods and data collection tools.
• Assist in identifying and recruiting participants for interviews and focus groups.
• Conduct interviews and focus groups with precision and professionalism.
• Organize and lead focus group sessions and document discussions.
• Conduct windshield surveys and document observations and data points.
• Assist in data compilation, organization, and analysis using appropriate software.
• Summarize findings and contribute to reports, presentations, and publications.
• Collaborate with team members to meet timelines and objectives.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities, data sources, and methodologies.
• Stay updated on literature and research methods to improve processes.
• Provide administrative support, including scheduling, document management, and coordination.

Skills

Literature reviews

Interviewing

Focus groups

Data collection

Documentation

Education

PhD in Rural Health Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

Job Family: Student Regular Wage

Department: Community Medicine

Supervisor: Michael Kramer

Job Title: Research Assistant

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Assistant to join our team on a part-time basis. The Research Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting our research projects by conducting literature reviews, interviewing individuals, facilitating focus groups, conducting windshield surveys, and performing various other tasks. The ideal candidate will possess strong research skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for contributing to meaningful research initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive literature reviews to gather relevant information and insights for research projects.
• Collaborate with the research team to develop research methodologies, data collection tools, and analysis frameworks.
• Assist in identifying and recruiting participants for interviews, focus groups, and surveys.
• Conduct interviews and focus groups with precision and professionalism, ensuring accurate data collection and recording.
• Organize and lead focus group sessions, facilitating productive discussions among participants.
• Conduct windshield surveys in designated areas, documenting observations and relevant data points.
• Assist in the compilation, organization, and analysis of collected data, utilizing appropriate software and tools.
• Summarize research findings and contribute to the creation of reports, presentations, and publications.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure projects are progressing according to established timelines and objectives.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities, data sources, and methodologies used.
• Stay updated on relevant literature, research methods, and industry trends to contribute to the enhancement of research processes.
• Provide administrative support to the research team, including scheduling meetings, managing documents, and coordinating research-related tasks.

Qualifications

• - Currently enrolled in the PhD program in Rural Health Sciences
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with participants, team members, and stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented mindset and strong analytical skills to ensure accuracy in data collection and analysis.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication within a team environment.
• Ethical conduct and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality in research activities.

We value diversity and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Location

• Center for Rural Health and Health Disparities

Pay rate: $24.04/hour

Scheduled Hours: 20

Start Date: 08/17/2026

End Date: 05/31/2027