Graduate Assistant

University of Maryland•College Park, MD

3d•$35,958 - $37,363•Onsite

About The Position

This is a 12-month, 20-hours-per-week full time graduate assistantship supporting the Research Development Office through data management, analytics, systems development, process improvement, and program support. We are seeking a motivated and proactive graduate student with strong technical, analytical, and organizational skills who is able to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. The position offers an opportunity to apply technical and analytical skills to strengthen the systems and processes that support research development programs and faculty funding activities. As a Graduate Assistant, you will work collaboratively with the Research Development team, with primary responsibilities focused on data systems, reporting, analytics, and workflow improvement. You will also develop familiarity with core Research Development programs and processes and provide backup programmatic and administrative support as needed.

Requirements

Must be a registered graduate student in good standing enrolled in a degree program at the University of Maryland and must be making satisfactory progress toward the degree.

Nice To Haves

Enrollment as a graduate student at UMD (Master's or Ph.D. level).
Demonstrated experience working with data, including organizing, cleaning, analyzing, and presenting information from multiple sources.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including advanced formulas, pivot tables, charts, and other data analysis and reporting functions.
Experience with Python and the ability to understand, run, troubleshoot, and modify existing code used to support data processing, reporting, and workflow automation.
Familiarity with GitHub or other version-control platforms for accessing, maintaining, and documenting code and technical projects.
Experience with databases, automation, data systems, or other technical tools used to improve administrative and reporting workflows.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to understand a process or operational need and develop practical technical solutions.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical and non-technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, learn new systems and technologies, and adapt to changing priorities.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy, documentation, and quality control.
Proficiency with common office and collaboration tools, including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
Experience developing interactive dashboards, reports, and visualizations using tools such as Power BI, Tableau, Looker Studio, or similar platforms.
Experience designing, querying, maintaining, or integrating databases and structured data sources, including familiarity with SQL or similar tools.
Experience developing automated workflows, integrating data across systems, or using APIs and other tools to reduce manual processes and improve efficiency.
Familiarity with HTML/CSS, JavaScript, or other web and application development technologies used to build or maintain internal tools and digital resources.
Experience using or developing AI-assisted tools, applications, or workflows for data analysis, information management, process automation, or administrative support.
Familiarity with software development practices, including version control, testing, documentation, and maintenance of existing code and technical projects.
Experience analyzing complex data sets and developing reports or analytical products that support program assessment, strategic planning, or decision-making.
Familiarity with research administration, sponsored research, research development, funding opportunities, or university administrative systems is a plus but not required.
Preference may be given to students who anticipate being eligible to hold the assistantship for two or more years.

Responsibilities

Develop, maintain, and improve databases and other data systems that support Research Development programs, funding opportunities, reporting, and institutional knowledge.
Develop and maintain dashboards, automated reports, visualizations, and other analytical tools to support program assessment, leadership reporting, strategic planning, and data-informed decision-making.
Identify opportunities to streamline processes and develop automated or technology-assisted workflows that reduce manual administrative work, improve data quality, and increase office efficiency.
Support the development, testing, implementation, documentation, and ongoing maintenance of internal tools and resources, including data and reporting systems used across Research Development.
Develop and maintain working knowledge of limited submission competitions, internal funding programs, InfoReady, and associated application, deadline, and reporting processes. Serve as backup support for program administration and tracking as needed.
Assist the Research Development team in identifying, tracking, organizing, and communicating relevant federal, state, foundation, and corporate funding opportunities.
Support documentation of systems and processes and assist, as needed, with communications, outreach materials, events, workshops, and other Research Development activities.
Work with Research Development staff to understand programmatic and operational needs, troubleshoot issues, and identify opportunities to improve how information, data, and technology are used across the office.