GA Research Assistant

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

 

 

The Pennsylvania State University Office of Educational Equity is seeking a collaborative, inquisitive, and mission-oriented graduate student to serve as a Graduate Assistant for Educational Equity Initiatives for a one-year term. Reporting directly to the Interim Vice Provost for Educational Equity, this position provides an exceptional opportunity to support Penn State’s goal of fostering a more inclusive and equitable university environment through thoughtful research and strategic initiatives. 

This role will be a key contributor to data-informed planning, cross-unit collaborations, and equity-centered research that also supports institutional grant-seeking and impact storytelling efforts. 

 

Primary Responsibilities 

The Graduate Assistant will collaborate with the Vice Provost and campus leaders to: 

• Conduct background research and literature reviews to inform university-wide equity initiatives and strategic planning 

• Assist in developing and implementing mixed-methods research studies related to access, success, and institutional climate across diverse student populations 

• Translate data findings into strategic recommendations, reports, and visualizations for internal and external stakeholders, including prospective funders and institutional partners 

• Monitor national and state-level policy developments related to educational equity and produce timely issue briefs or summaries 

• Support grant writing and funding proposal development by contributing research-based justifications, literature summaries, and relevant institutional data 

• Contribute to the creation of public-facing materials (e.g., white papers, infographics, impact briefs) to advance educational equity and inform philanthropic engagement 

• Collaborate strategically with offices such as Institutional Research, Government Relations, Development, and academic colleges on research and impact alignment 

• Perform other duties as assigned, aligned with the evolving needs of the Office of Educational Equity 

 

Skill-Building and Learning Opportunities 

This role offers a unique opportunity to develop: 

• Advanced research, data analysis, and policy translation skills 

• Hands-on experience in grant development and strategic communications 

• Practical exposure to cross-sector collaboration and equity-centered institutional planning 

• Familiarity with national frameworks such as the NADOHE Standards for Professional Practice and Shared Equity Leadership 

• Writing and presentation skills tailored for academic, institutional, and philanthropic audiences 

 

Qualifications 

• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for diverse audiences 

• Capacity for independent learning, project ownership, and flexibility in a fast-paced environment 

• Collaborative mindset and interest in supporting data-informed institutional change 

• Interest or experience in one or more of the following is a plus: 

• Educational equity, access, or social justice 

• Quantitative and/or qualitative research methods 

• Grant writing or proposal development 

• Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Canva) 

• Public policy analysis or advocacy 

 

Eligibility and Compensation 

This position is intended for doctoral students in the dissertation phase due to time commitment. 

• Time Commitment: 30 hours/week 

• Term: Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 

• Compensation: Full dissertation fee and a Grade 18 three-quarter time GA stipend 

 

Application Instructions 

To be considered, please upload the following: 

• A cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience 

• A resume or CV 

• The name and contact information (email and phone number) of one reference 

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. 

 

 

 

 

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

 

 

 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

 

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

 

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

 

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