Graduate Funding Information Service

July 6, 2020

UW PreDoctoral Research Assistant: Summer/Fall 2020

Application Deadline: July 16, 2020

Living wage jobs increasingly require digital skills, but many of those recently unemployed due to COVID-19 lack computers and internet at home and are less likely to have the digital literacy required to access new careers. In response to these needs, the City of Seattle, in partnership with the Seattle Jobs Initiative (SJI), will pilot a program to provide job seekers with home technology and remote support to develop digital skills and prepare for new careers. Technology and Social Change Group (TASCHA) received funding from Population Health Initiative’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Research Grant to investigate key questions related to the program design, implementation, and participant experience to increase the understanding of participants’ needs, implications for future program design, and the impact on those who received services. The research will involve audio diaries and interviews with program participants and analysis of additional program data provided by the partners resulting in new, novel knowledge about these types of emerging interventions. The results will help to inform the City in decision-making and planning for future programs to support ongoing economic recovery efforts for people in vulnerable situations.

TASCHA is currently seeking a Ph.D. student to support this research. The student will work closely with TASCHA researchers on implementing the audio diaries, carrying out interviews and analysis, general project management, and writing findings. The ideal candidate will have experience in qualitative research and interest working on a project with community partners.

In the summer, the position will average 10 hours per week. Starting in the fall quarter, the position will average 20 hours per week. This position may be eligible for tuition waiver or benefits.Although funding for the project will not extend past December, there may be future opportunities to co-author journal manuscripts and conference papers with the project team. Questions regarding compensation or benefits should be directed to iSchool Human Resources at ihrhelp@uw.edu

Eligibility

  • Ph.D. student enrolled at the University of Washington during fall quarter 2020
  • Enrolled for a minimum of 10 credits during fall quarter
  • Demonstrated experience carrying out qualitative research
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently

For more information about this opportunity, including how to apply, click here.