Cognitive Science Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

The Research Methodology Consulting Center (RMCC) is seeking a 25% graduate assistant for the 2026-2027 Academic Year. The graduate assistant position supports RMCCs mission to strengthen the quality of research by providing expert methodology consulting, robust statistical guidance, and practical training; supporting students and researchers from study design through analysis and publication. 

Position Start Date: August 31, 2026 
Reports To: Kyle Nickodem, Director, Research Methodology Consulting Center (RMCC)
Classification: 9521, Research Assistant
Appointment dates: August 31, 2026 May 30, 2027
Pay rate: $28.93 / hour 
Location and Schedule: The position is hybrid; some tasks may require a presence on campus while most tasks can be completed remotely. On campus work will be based out of RMCCs office in Wulling Hall 140. The weekly schedule can and will vary based on consultation and client requests in collaboration with the graduate assistant and the RMCC Director; 10 standard hours per week. The base expectation for work schedule is M-F between the hours of 8AM-4:30PM or otherwise agreed upon with the RMCC director to accommodate course schedule.
Job Responsibilities

• 4 hours/week - Consulting with graduate students on their thesis and dissertation work as well as with faculty and research staff on their unfunded research projects.
• 2 hours/week - Participating on funded research projects. These can be with collaborators both internal and external to UMN. Activities may include survey development, evaluation design and implementation, data management and archiving, data analysis through quantitative and mixed method approaches, developing and delivering workshops, and contributing to the dissemination of findings (e.g., journal manuscripts, conference proposals). Projects will be assigned based on the graduate assistants expertise and opportunity for skill development.
• 3 hours/week - Developing and compiling methodological resources to improve the quality and efficiency of applied research. Activities will align with current RMCC initiatives and can also be initiated by the graduate assistant.
• 1 hour/week Check-in and all-team meetings

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors degree
• Registered in a Graduate program in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD)
• Completed required methods coursework for Graduate program
• Experiences focused on the development and application of quantitative or mixed methods in a variety of research settings (e.g., laboratory, school-based, community-based)
• Proficiency in one or more of the following: R, Python, Mplus, NVivo, or related languages and research software
• Strong professional writing skills
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and on a team
• Ability to work well with diverse populations
• Strong organizational and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching and providing mentorship
• Familiarity with open science practices
• Demonstrated ability to be personable, flexible, and manage time efficiently

Pay Range: $28.93 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Office of Student Health Benefits website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
 

Student workers are eligible to participate in the Student Health Benefit Plan, if they maintain 6 or more eligible course credits within a given semester. The same applies for Undergraduate Students, Graduate Assistants, Residents, Fellows and Interns.

Application Deadline: August 23, 2026

Student positions are a form of financial support while pursuing an education at the University of Minnesota.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Required application materials:
Resume/CV
Brief cover letter outlining interest in gaining experience as a research consultant

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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