Research Associate - Limited Term

Georgia 4-H; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 47,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Georgia is seeking a part-time Research Associate for a limited-term project pairing shelter cats with older adults. You will perform monthly home visits to deliver cat supplies, monitor animal well-being, and respond to participant concerns.

You will also collect data at specified times, maintain accurate records, and work under the Principal Investigator in a grant-funded study through 2028. Some evenings and weekends may be required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of feline behavior and handling techniques.
• Ability to observe and assess cat behavior and respond appropriately.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for diverse audiences.
• Ability to accurately collect, record, and maintain research data per protocols.
• Critical-thinking and problem-solving to identify and implement solutions.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with participants and cats in the study. Conduct regular home visits to deliver supplies, check on well-being, and address concerns.
• Collect data from participants at scheduled times throughout the study; some evening/weekend work may be required.

Skills

Feline behavior

Handling techniques

Observation

Data collection

Communication

Independence

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Number:

S15822P

Working Title:

Research Associate - Limited Term

Department:

VetMed-Dept of Biomedical Sci

About the University of Georgia:

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department:

The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well-rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community.

College/Unit/Department website:

www.vet.uga.edu

Posting Type:

External

Retirement Plan:

TRS

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:

Non-Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time:

Part Time

Additional Schedule Information:

Position will work less than 15 hours per week.

This position has a limited-term appointment that is expected to end 07/31/2028. The position may be extended beyond the initial term, contingent upon continued funding.

Advertised Salary:

30.00 hour

Posting Date:

10/01/2026

Open until filled:

Yes

Proposed Starting Date:

10/11/2026

Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement:

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Classification Title:

Statistical Assistant I

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

FTE:

.375

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent

Position Summary:

The part-time Research Associate is for a key position in a newly funded research study pairing foster cats from shelters with older adults aged 60 or older. This person will conduct monthly home visits with participants in the study to deliver supplies for the cats, check on the well-being of the cats, and address any concerns participants may have with their foster cat. They will also be responsible for collecting data from the participants at the scheduled times throughout the study. This position is in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, and reports to the Principal Investigator for the study, which is grant funded.

This position has a limited-term appointment that is expected to end 07/31/2028. The position may be extended beyond the initial term, contingent upon continued funding.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Knowledge of feline behavior and handling techniques, with the ability to safely work with cats while minimizing stress and promoting animal welfare.
• Ability to observe and assess cat behavior, recognize signs of distress, and respond appropriately to support safe and effective animal care practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including active listening and the ability to clearly and effectively convey information to a variety of audiences.
• Ability to accurately collect, record, and maintain research data in accordance with established protocols, procedures, and quality standards.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and implement effective solutions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research or animal care environment while maintaining attention to detail, accuracy, and professionalism.

Physical Demands:

Ability to lift at least 15 lbs

Is driving a responsibility of this position?:

Yes

Is this a Position of Trust?:

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:

No

Does this position require a P-Card? :

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy:

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy:

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Work closely with participants and cats enrolled in the study. Conduct regular home visits with participants in the study to deliver supplies for the cats, check on the well-being of the cats, and address any concerns participants may have with their foster cat.

Percentage of time:

80

Duties/Responsibilities:

Collecting data from participants at the scheduled times throughout the study. Some evening and weekend work may be required.

Percentage of time:

20

Contact Details:

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name:

Susan Nunnally

Recruitment Contact Email:

[e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone:

[phone]