Social Science/Humanities Research Associate IV

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, UT

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Under the leadership of the BBR director, the employee will work on several research projects in the BBR/IC² Institute on the UT Austin campus. This position will primarily contribute to two existing research streams: 1) Pathways to Behavioral Health and Well-Being in Texas: Population Impacts of Sexual Violence (PATHWAYS-TX) and 2) Responsible AI in Healthcare: Convergent Methods for Policy Discovery to Guide Human-AI Collaboration for the Good of All. Other projects are pending based on availability of funder support. This is a benefits-eligible position ending on August 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension depending on business need and funding availability. The research associate will assist with gathering data from various sources, as well as collecting and analyzing survey data, large datasets, and other project data. Support the development of statistical models and data management, contribute to reports, publications, and other research deliverables. Assist in conducting research projects.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree, preferably in fields related to electrical and computer engineering, information systems, operations research, management science, business, economics or other social sciences that utilize mixed methods research plus 6 years of related experience.
Previous experience working in public health, health care systems, AI, policy analysis, community development, or communications.
Previous experience using qualitative methods to analyze interview or focus group transcripts and/or content analysis of text archives.
Previous experience conducting research on complex sociological systems.
Previous experience managing, processing, and/or evaluating large amounts of text data.
Strong writing skills.
Demonstrated interest and background in machine learning, predictive analytics, spatial data, and network data.
Experience in R, Python, Julia or other data science focused programming
Experience with relational databases and SQL programming
Experience in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
Experience managing multiple projects and the ability to handle competing deadlines.
Project management experience.
Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with various teams, including faculty, researchers, and external stakeholders.
Willingness to perform a variety of duties and keep track of work for reporting to supervisors on progress.
Ability to work optimally and independently in a fast-paced environment.
Ideal candidates are driven, self-starters with the ability to grasp complex subject matter quickly and work well within teams.
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Masters degree, preferably in fields related to electrical and computer engineering, information systems, operations research, management science, or other social sciences that utilize mixed methods research plus 4 years experience .
Previous experience conducting research on complex sociological systems, including the domains of mental and behavioral health, violence prevention, and /or healthcare systems.
Expertise with Dedoose for managing and coding qualitative research data.
Expertise with R, Python, Julia or other data science focused programming.
Experience with SPSS syntax programming.
Previous experience tabulating survey data with SPSS CTables.
Experience with spatial data wrangling, analysis, and modelling of large datasets.
Knowledge of spatial data analysis and tools such as ArcGIS.
Previous experience with large datasets.
Experience with Zotero for managing references and citing those references in academic writing.
Experience with designing and conducting human-centered research through scripted or semi-scripted storytelling as means of communicating products, technologies, or interventions in the context of qualitative research.
Experience preparing IRB proposals.
Familiarity with the process of submitting IRB applications for research involving human subjects is an asset.

Responsibilities

Participate in compiling, administering, processing, analyzing, and verifying interview data, focus group discussions, surveys, and other project-related data.
Coordinate with the PI and team members to ensure timely and accurate data collection and storage.
Follow confidentiality rules and human subject protocols.
Support the organization and maintenance of research materials, service agreements, payments, and preparation of grant reporting materials.
Ensure the smooth flow of project operations, providing supervision and training to other project personnel as needed.
Assist with the creation and submission of IRB proposals and other research documentation.
Contribute to the preparation of written reports, publications, and presentations based on research findings.
Perform additional tasks as required, contributing to the overall success of the project.