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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

TNBR Careers

Graduate Research Fellow

Nashville, TN · On-site

The Graduate Research Fellow will also collaborate with Research and Innovation team members ... and assist staff at TBR meetings and events - (Essential) * 10% - Other duties as assigned ...

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How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Tennessee is $17.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate research assistant?

Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) are graduate students who work under the supervision of faculty members to assist with academic research projects. Their responsibilities can include data collection, literature reviews, conducting experiments, analyzing results, and helping to prepare research publications or presentations. These positions often provide students with hands-on experience in their field of study and may offer a stipend or tuition waiver as compensation. GRAs play a crucial role in advancing university research while developing skills for future academic or professional careers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a graduate research assistant?

To thrive as a Graduate Research Assistant, you need a solid academic background in your field, strong analytical skills, and experience with research methodologies. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), literature databases, and possibly laboratory equipment is often required. Excellent organization, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set candidates apart in collaborative research environments. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, meeting project deadlines, and contributing effectively to academic teams.

What challenges do graduate research assistants face when balancing research projects with coursework?

Graduate Research Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, including research tasks, coursework, and sometimes teaching duties. Time management is a frequent challenge, as research projects may have unpredictable workloads or urgent deadlines that overlap with academic requirements. Clear communication with your advisor and setting realistic expectations can help manage these demands. Many assistants find that developing strong organizational skills and seeking support from peers or mentors aids in maintaining a healthy balance between research and academic obligations.

What is the difference between Graduate Research Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Research AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsGraduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) often requiredUndergraduate or graduate students, less formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institution, often part of a universityResearch labs, industry, or academic settings, usually temporary
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesCorporations, research firms, academic labs

In summary, a Graduate Research Assistant typically holds a graduate degree and works within academic or research institutions, focusing on long-term research projects. In contrast, a Research Intern is often a student or early-career individual gaining practical experience, usually on a temporary basis in various research settings.

Can you be a graduate research assistant with a master's degree?

Yes, a master's degree is often sufficient to qualify for a graduate research assistant position, which typically requires strong research skills, familiarity with relevant tools, and academic coursework. Some positions may prefer or require additional qualifications such as a related bachelor's degree or specific technical expertise.

Is being a graduate research assistant worth it?

A graduate research assistant role provides valuable research experience, skills in data analysis and academic writing, and networking opportunities within a university environment. However, it often involves low pay and a demanding schedule, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.
More about Graduate Research Assistant jobs

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For Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Graduate Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,486 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Graduate Research Fellow

Tennessee Board of Regents

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Graduate Research Fellow

Apply now Job no: 504589
Work type: Staff Full-Time
Location: Nashville
Categories: Staff

Title: Temp Hourly Policy & Strategy

Employee Classification: Other

Institution: System Office

Department: Policy & Strategy

Campus Location: Tennessee Board of Regents System Office

Job Summary

TBR-The College System of Tennessee serves community colleges and technical colleges across the state. The Office of Research and Innovation works at the front lines of TBR's efforts to develop insights into student success through data analysis, policy research, and innovation.
Through the Office of Research and Innovation, TBR turns research findings into actionable information to support postsecondary access and success. Within this team, the TBR Policy Lab leads research about the effects of state and system policy on student outcomes. The TBR Policy Lab currently leads projects about corequisite learning support, dual enrollment, transfer pathways to universities, and employment outcomes for graduates of TBR colleges. The TBR Policy Lab also collaborates closely with the TBR Innovation Lab, which leads the design, implementation, and evaluation of projects to improve student success.
The Graduate Research Fellow will also collaborate with Research and Innovation team members, participate in research projects, and attend systemwide meetings. The Fellow will also have the opportunity to develop skills in policy research (e.g., drafting policy memos, contributing to working research papers, attending legislative sessions), data analysis (e.g., Stata, SQL, PowerBI), and research design.

Job Duties

  • 30% - Conduct data analyses about enrollment and success trends or the impact of system initiatives on student success at TBR colleges - (Essential)
  • 40% - Write reports, create presentations, and present research findings for the Office of Research and Innovation - (Essential)
  • 20% - Attend and assist staff at TBR meetings and events - (Essential)
  • 10% - Other duties as assigned. - (Marginal)

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree
Familiarity with data analysis or education policy

Preferred Qualifications

Graduate classes in education policy or data analysis
Experience with policy and research studies
Interest in higher education policy

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Professional, trustworthy, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
Proficiency in data analysis or willingness to expand skill set with data analysis software.
Ability to communicate orally and in writing.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint or related tools.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

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Advertised: 27 Jul 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:

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