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Graduate Research Mentor Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

... mentoring. * Promotes collaboration with medical school research and community service programs ... Within the department, supports an integrated strategy for undergraduate, graduate, and continuing ...

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Graduate Research Mentor information

What are some common challenges Graduate Research Mentors face when guiding students, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Graduate Research Mentors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student skill levels, balancing their own research with mentoring duties, and fostering independent thinking without micromanaging. To overcome these, mentors can set clear expectations, establish regular check-ins, and create a supportive environment that encourages questions and collaboration. Utilizing structured feedback and open communication helps mentees grow while allowing mentors to efficiently manage their workload.

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

AspectGraduate Research MentorResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsGraduate degree or pursuing a graduate programUndergraduate or graduate student, sometimes with relevant coursework
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research centers, universitiesLaboratories, field sites, academic or research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, research labs, private companies
Primary RoleMentoring students, overseeing research projects, guiding research designAssisting with experiments, data collection, and analysis

The main difference is that a Graduate Research Mentor typically provides guidance and oversight to students or junior researchers, often holding a graduate degree or pursuing one, while a Research Assistant primarily supports research activities through hands-on tasks. The Mentor role involves leadership and mentorship, whereas the Assistant role focuses on executing research tasks under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Research Mentor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Research Mentor, you need a strong background in research methodology, subject matter expertise, and typically an advanced degree in your field. Familiarity with data analysis software, citation management tools, and ethical research guidelines is often required. Excellent communication, active listening, and leadership skills help build trust and foster the intellectual growth of mentees. These skills and qualities are essential for guiding students effectively, promoting rigorous research, and supporting academic and professional development.

Can I be a research assistant without a PhD?

Research assistant positions often do not require a PhD and are typically open to individuals with a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. These roles focus on supporting research activities, data collection, and analysis, and may require strong organizational skills and familiarity with research tools. Advanced research roles or those involving independent project design usually require a higher level of education, such as a PhD.

What does a research mentor do?

A research mentor guides and supports students or junior researchers in developing their research skills, designing experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results. They provide feedback, oversee project progress, and help mentees develop critical thinking and professional skills within a research environment.

What are Graduate Research Mentors?

Graduate Research Mentors are experienced graduate students or professionals who guide and support less experienced students, typically undergraduates or new graduate students, in conducting academic research. They provide advice on research design, methodology, data analysis, and academic writing, as well as general mentorship on navigating graduate school. Their role is to foster a supportive learning environment, help mentees develop critical research skills, and promote academic and professional growth.

What jobs can I get with a PhD in curriculum and instruction?

A PhD in curriculum and instruction prepares individuals for roles such as university professor, educational researcher, curriculum developer, instructional coordinator, or education consultant. These positions often require expertise in research methods, curriculum design, and educational theory, and may involve working in academic, government, or private education settings.

How much should a mentor cost?

The cost of a Graduate Research Mentor varies depending on the institution, funding sources, and whether the position is paid or voluntary. Paid mentorship roles typically offer stipends or hourly wages, often aligned with research assistant or teaching assistant pay scales, which can range from minimum wage to several thousand dollars per month. Unpaid mentorship is common in academic settings where mentors provide guidance as part of their academic responsibilities.
Visiting Assistant Professor in Early Elementary Education

Visiting Assistant Professor in Early Elementary Education

Oakland University

Rochester, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Oakland University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Visiting Assistant Professor in Early Elementary Education
Department
2055 - Human Development & Child Study
Requisition No.
0000821
Job Description Summary
The Early Childhood Education area in the Department of Human Development and Child Studies (HDCS) at Oakland University invites applications for a non-tenure-track, Visiting Assistant Professor position to begin in August 2026. We are especially interested in a candidate with expertise in early elementary education. The position is a one-year contract with the possibility of extension.
Responsibilities include teaching, mentoring, and supervising undergraduate and graduate students; providing service to the department, school, and university, as well as contributing to Oakland University's mission for community partnerships and engagement.
For full consideration, please submit your completed application, along with the following required materials, by Friday, May 29, 2026. The position will be open until filled.
Minimum Qualifications
  • A Master's degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education, Child Development, Human Development, or a related field; PhD or EdD strongly preferred
  • Three or more years of experience teaching in an early elementary classroom setting;
  • Evidence of successful teaching in early childhood or elementary education, practicum or field experience supervision at undergraduate and/or graduate level;
  • Good command of educational technology; experience with online asynchronous and hybrid teaching;
  • Passion for mentoring preservice and inservice teachers;
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

Special Instructions to Applicants
The following documents are required:
  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Post-secondary transcripts
  • Teaching statement
  • Research statement
  • A representative publication in the Early Childhood Education or Early Elementary area
  • Name and contact information of 3 references who can provide a letter upon request

Please direct all inquiries to:
Early Childhood/Early Elementary Education Position Search Chair Dr. Katie Sloan
krsloan@oakland.edu
School/College & Department/Program Summary
The Department of Human Development and Child Studies (HDCS), housed in the School of Education and Human Services, provides a variety of Early Childhood and Special Education programs. The Early Childhood area offers a B.S. in Early Childhood Education that prepares students for Michigan's Birth through 3rd grade teaching certification. The Department also houses an M.Ed and a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education, where students from across the state and internationally learn together. HDCS oversees the Lowry Center for Early Childhood Education, OU's lab preschool accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Lowry serves children from 18 months to prekindergarten. Over 10 different nationalities are represented at Lowry every year.
More About Oakland University
The University is located on 1,443 acres of scenic land in the cities of Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County, Michigan. The University offers 142 bachelor's degree programs and 138 graduate degree and certificate programs. Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Services, School of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Medicine and School of Nursing. As an anchor institution in southeastern Michigan that is dedicated to building ongoing, collaborative relationships, Oakland University embraces community and civic engagement to enhance the lives of its students and positively impact the broader community. Learn more about Oakland University's Mission & Vision and Strategic Plan.
Pay Basis
Open Date
05/01/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Job Category
Visiting Faculty
EEO Statement
Oakland University is an Equal Opportunity institution.