Part-Time Research Assistant

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

College of Arts & Sciences

Time Type:

Part time

Work Modality:

Union:

Job Description:

Summary:

To support projects advancing Thomas Costello’s lab’s research agenda and mission. This position will have a particular focus on generative AI and human-AI dialogues. The position will involve being integrated into all aspects of the lab’s research and being a core member of the research team. Further, the position will be shared with the MIT Human Cooperation Lab. Will be an integral part of ongoing efforts to study human AI dialogues. Will be involved in designing studies, collecting data, analyzing results, and writing papers. Will be expected to contribute substantially to all of these activities. Will also be a bridge between our group and collaborators at MIT and Cornell.

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Will assist with one or more research studies and be responsible for collaborating on projects related to generative AI.

• Work with research scientists on all research study components, including literature review, research design, data collection, data analysis, and drafting of reports, briefs and academic papers for publication via internal and external channels.

• Work with the lab team on drafting and producing written communications for public-facing audiences, including blogs for the website, social media, and events; support research and writing for grant applications.

• Other duties as needed or required.

Competencies:

• Displaying Creativity.

• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

• Prioritizing and Organizing.

• Evaluating and Implementing Ideas.

• Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

• Developing Plans.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• Part-Time.

• 10 hours per week.

Salary Range:

• $30.00 per hour.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree.

• 4-6 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• PhD or equivalent.

• 4-6 years of relevant experience.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, cognitive science, economics, public policy, or related social science field.

• Excellent organizational and written and verbal communication skills and organizational skills.

• Quantitative methods training and experience in R, Python, or Stata; research experience with cognitive science, or related area and/or expertise.

• Deals with confidential information and/or issues using discretion and judgment.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite.