The Institute for Social Science Research (ISSR) is seeking applications for an advanced graduate student with expertise in qualitative methods to join our staff of graduate consultants for our Research Consulting service for the Fall semester of 2021. This is a one-year position, with possibility for renewal.
The role of an ISSR consultant is to provide methodological guidance to students, faculty, and other researchers in the UMass community with their research projects. The primary job responsibility is to hold individual meetings with faculty and students in response to walk-in and email requests for assistance. In addition, each consultant prepares and delivers two workshops each semester on a research methods and/or analytical software topic.
The desired qualifications include:
- Knowledge of and experience with interviewing methods
- A minimum of intermediate knowledge of NVivo for Windows or demonstrated ability to self-teach
- Knowledge of additional qualitative methods, such as focus groups, is a plus.
- Proficiency in the quantitative software package SPSS would be a plus, although definitely not required.
A friendly, patient, and helpful demeanor with a genuine interest in assisting others, and excellent communication skills are required for all applicants. A typical appointment is for 5 hours a week during the academic semester, depending upon need and availability. The position does not qualify for tuition remission or full health benefits, but would make a great source of supplemental income to a TA or RA position. Our past Methodology Consultants have done very well in the job market after completing their PhDs; having this experience on your CV is an additional benefit.
The ISSR Methodology Consultants are funded by support from the Graduate School at UMass Amherst.
To apply please submit a cover letter describing your scope and depth of methodological expertise, including both your research experience and a list of current and past graduate methods coursework. Also include your CV and contact information for at least two faculty references who can speak to your research and methodological abilities. Please submit this information to Dr. Jessica Pearlman, ISSR's Director of Research Methods Programs, at jpearlman@issr.umass.edu.
