Part Time Research Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Time Type:

Job Type:

FLSA Status:

Summary:

The Research Assistant provides project-based research, data management, and administrative support to faculty in the Kogod School of Business, focusing on topics such as leadership, the future of work, and knowledge networks. This position is responsible for organizing and tracking research projects, conducting literature and web-based research, supporting survey design and data collection, cleaning and compiling data, and preparing clear written summaries and reports to advance faculty research objectives.

Essential Functions:

1.) Project-based research support: Conduct literature searches and web-based research; compile, summarize, and synthesize academic and practitioner sources related to leadership, future of work, and knowledge networks; assist in developing research questions and organizing source materials.

2.) Data management and analysis support: Perform data transcription, compilation, and data cleaning; conduct basic content analysis; use research-related software and tools to manage datasets; prepare organized data files and documentation for faculty review.

3.) Survey and data collection activities: Assist with survey design and formatting; support implementation of data collection procedures (e.g., survey distribution, follow-up communication); track responses and ensure data integrity for ongoing projects.

4.) Project organization, tracking, and scheduling: Maintain project timelines, task lists, and tracking documents; coordinate scheduling of meetings and research-related activities; monitor progress on project milestones and communicate status updates to supervising faculty.

5.) Administrative and communication support: Draft and edit emails, memos, and brief reports; organize digital files and documentation; support general administrative needs for faculty research projects, ensuring clear and timely communication.

6.) Reporting and documentation: Prepare summary reports, tables, and brief written summaries of research and data findings; maintain organized records of methodologies, procedures, and project decisions for future reference and renewal of the position.

Competencies:

• Serving Customers.

• Displaying Creativity.

• Prioritizing and Organizing.

• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

• Supporting Coworkers.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• Non-exempt.

• 10-15 hours per week.

• This is a temporary position ending on or before December 31, 2026.

Salary Range:

• $20/hour.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

• 1-3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Master's degree.

• 1-3 years of relevant experience.

Benefits

Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.

• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

• American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

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Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.