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How much do political science graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for political science graduate research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political science graduate research assistant?

Political Science Graduate Research Assistants are graduate students who work with professors or research teams to support academic research projects within the field of political science. Their tasks may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, assisting with survey design, and preparing reports or publications. These positions provide hands-on research experience, help develop analytical and methodological skills, and often contribute to the student's own academic development.

What types of research tasks can I expect to handle as a political science graduate research assistant?

As a Political Science Graduate Research Assistant, you’ll likely engage in a range of tasks such as conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing quantitative or qualitative data, assisting with survey design, and preparing research reports or presentations. You may also help faculty members with grant writing, data entry, or editing academic papers. Collaboration is common; you’ll often work closely with professors, fellow graduate students, and sometimes undergraduate assistants, allowing you to develop both your research and teamwork skills. This hands-on experience is valuable for building a strong foundation for future academic or policy-oriented careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political science graduate research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Science Graduate Research Assistant, you need a solid background in political science theory, research methodologies, and data analysis, usually supported by enrollment in a graduate program. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, Stata, or R), academic databases, and reference management tools is typically required. Strong written communication, critical thinking, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and manage complex research projects. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality research, supporting faculty, and contributing to impactful academic publications.

What is the difference between Political Science Graduate Research Assistant vs Political Analyst?

AspectPolitical Science Graduate Research AssistantPolitical Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or Bachelor's in Political Science or related field; research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, Public Policy, or related field; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research centers, government agenciesThink tanks, media outlets, government offices, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research projects, government research divisionsMedia organizations, policy firms, government agencies

The main difference is that a Political Science Graduate Research Assistant primarily supports academic or research projects through data collection and analysis, often within universities or research institutions. In contrast, a Political Analyst interprets political data to provide insights and forecasts for media, policy, or consulting firms. Both roles require strong research and analytical skills but differ in their focus and work environment.

What cities are hiring for Political Science Graduate Research Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Political Science Graduate Research Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Political Science Graduate Research Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Political Science Graduate Research Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Political Science Graduate Research Assistant jobs?

For Political Science Graduate Research Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Political Science Graduate Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Graduate Research Assistant - MSIR

Troy, AL • On-site

Troy University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Troy Universityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Troy University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
ST1400P
Position Title
Graduate Research Assistant - MSIR
Position Type
Student
Department
School of Social Sciences - Political Science - Troy
Division
College of Education and Behavioral Sciences
Campus
Troy
Work Status
Student (SPT)
Temporary
Yes
Location
Troy - T01
Job Summary
The Center for Eastern and Central European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies (CECERES) at Troy University seeks a highly motivated Graduate Research Assistant to support the research activities of the Center Director and affiliated faculty. This position is designed for graduate students with strong analytical and writing skills who are interested in academic research, policy analysis, and international affairs.
The Graduate Research Assistant will contribute directly to faculty research projects, publications, grant proposals, and policy-oriented outputs related to Eastern and Central Europe, Russia, and Eurasia.
About the Center:
The Center for Eastern and Central European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies is an interdisciplinary research center focused on the politics, security, history, and societies of Eastern and Central Europe, Russia, and Eurasia. The Center supports faculty and student research, hosts scholarly and public events, and contributes to policy-relevant debates through research dissemination and external engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct literature reviews and background research for faculty and Director-led projects.
Assist with data collection and organization, including qualitative and quantitative sources.
Support drafting and editing of academic manuscripts, policy briefs, reports, and grant applications.
Track developments related to regional politics, security, and international affairs.
Compile annotated bibliographies and research memorandum.
Assist with preparation of presentations, conference materials, and research summaries.
Support collaborative research projects involving multiple faculty members.
Minimum Qualifications
  1. Must be a currently enrolled Master of International Relations graduate student in good standing at Troy University.
  2. Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
  3. Ability to synthesize complex academic and policy material clearly and accurately.
  4. Demonstrated interest in international relations, political science, area studies, or a related field.
  5. High level of professionalism, discretion, and reliability.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Coursework or background in Eastern European, Russian, or Eurasian studies.
  2. Experience with academic databases (e.g., JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science).
  3. Foreign language skills relevant to the region (e.g., Russian or other regional languages).
  4. Experience with citation management software (e.g., Zotero, EndNote).
  5. Prior experience assisting faculty research or contributing to academic publications.
  6. Professional Development Opportunities:This position offers close mentorship with faculty, exposure to advanced research methods, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to publications and policy-relevant research. It is particularly well suited for students considering doctoral study, research careers, or work in policy and analytical institutions.

Will this position require driving (personal vehicle, university vehicle, utility vehicle, or golf cart) in order to perform the job duties?
No
Work Hours
Maximum of 20 hours per week
List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position
N/A
Does this position have supervisory responsibility?
No
Posting Date
09/03/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Quick Link
https://www.troyuniversityjobs.com/postings/46640

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