Part-Time Research Assistant

Position Summary

The Granger Lab in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University is seeking part-time Research Assistants to support multiple ongoing research studies focused on classroom peer relationships, emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD), teacher practices, classroom social networks, and elementary school environments.

Research Assistants will work closely with the Project Coordinator and research team to support data collection, participant communication, data management, and general research activities across several school-based projects. This position is ideal for recent graduates or individuals interested in gaining research experience before pursuing graduate training in psychology, education, special education, child development, social work, or related fields.

This is a part-time, grant-funded position. School-based hours are required.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with school-based data collection in elementary classrooms

• Administering surveys, questionnaires, and structured research activities

• Assisting with data entry, coding, cleaning, and organization

• Preparing study materials and research packets

• Communicating with teachers and school personnel

• Assisting with literature reviews and project organization

• Supporting research team meetings and administrative tasks

• Assisting with management of classroom social network, behavioral, and biomarker data

• Maintaining confidentiality and following research protocols and IRB procedures

• Completing other research-related duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications

• Enrollment in or completion of a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, special education, child development, human development, sociology, or related field preferred

• Interest in education, child development, school psychology, or special education research

• Experience working with children or school settings preferred

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple responsibilities

• Experience with Microsoft Office and/or research data platforms preferred

• Access to reliable transportation is required, as this position includes travel to local school sites for data collection and project activities

About the Lab

The Granger Lab studies peer relationships, classroom social dynamics, teacher decision-making, and emotional and behavioral disorders in elementary school settings. Current projects focus on classroom social networks, teacher practices that support peer relationships, classroom adversity, and intervention development to improve social and behavioral outcomes for students.

The Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University is consistently ranked among the top special education programs in the nation and is committed to improving outcomes for children and youth with disabilities through research, training, and practice.

Additional Information

• Part-time position (approximately 20 hours/week depending on availability and project needs)

• Grant-funded position

• Compensation commensurate with experience

• Nashville-based position with in-person responsibilities required

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and