Research Assistant

Mississippi State University; Starkville (MS); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University in Starkville, MS seeks a Research Assistant to support faculty and research staff with literature reviews, data collection, and preparation of manuscripts and presentations.

The role involves coordinating research activities, maintaining records, and ensuring adherence to protocols and ethics. Some laboratories work or field tasks may be required, with collaboration across a multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

• Strong analytical and data analysis abilities to interpret findings and support conclusions.
• Experience in literature reviews, study protocols, and research documentation.
• Effective written and verbal communication for reports and presentations.
• Basic laboratory techniques and safety procedures where applicable.
• Familiarity with SPSS or R for data analysis is beneficial.
• Research ethics and compliance awareness is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews and organize data for study projects.
• Assist with preparation of reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
• Coordinate research activities and maintain accurate records.
• Ensure adherence to research protocols and ethical guidelines.
• Assist with basic lab procedures or fieldwork as needed.
• Collaborate with team to meet project milestones and deadlines.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Laboratory Skills

Statistical Software

Research Ethics

Organizational Skills

Independent & Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Tools

SPSS

R

Job description

Company Description

Mississippi State University is a large public research institution with over 23,000 students from all 82 Mississippi counties, all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and more than 84 foreign countries. The university is committed to fostering academic excellence and preparing tomorrow’s scholars and leaders. Its diverse and inclusive campus community offers opportunities for meaningful collaboration across disciplines. Mississippi State University emphasizes research and innovation that positively impact communities and change lives, making it an attractive environment for individuals seeking to contribute to societal progress.

Role Description

The Research Assistant is a full-time, on-site role located in Starkville, MS. This position supports faculty and research staff by conducting literature reviews, collecting and organizing data, and assisting with the preparation of reports, manuscripts, and presentations. Daily tasks may include coordinating research activities, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring adherence to research protocols and ethical guidelines. The Research Assistant may also help with basic laboratory procedures or fieldwork as needed, and collaborate with team members to meet project milestones and deadlines. The role involves regular communication with supervisors and project partners to provide updates and contribute to problem-solving.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess strong Analytical Skills and Data Analysis abilities to interpret findings and support evidence-based conclusions.
• Candidates should possess solid Research capabilities to conduct literature reviews, design or follow study protocols, and manage research documentation.
• Candidates should possess effective Communication skills, including clear written and verbal communication for reports, presentations, and collaboration.
• Candidates should possess relevant Laboratory Skills, such as basic lab techniques, sample handling, and familiarity with safety procedures, when applicable to the project.
• Relevant skills and qualifications that would be beneficial include proficiency with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or similar), experience with research ethics and compliance, strong organizational and time-management skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• A bachelor’s degree in a related field (such as biology, psychology, social sciences, engineering, or other research-oriented disciplines) is preferred; prior research or lab experience is an advantage.