Undergraduate Research Assistant – University-Based Retirement Community (UBRC) Research
We are seeking an undergraduate student to assist with a faculty-led research project funded by a CLA EXCEL grant at Purdue University. The project focuses on the development and pilot testing of a research instrument examining environmental design features, intergenerational engagement, and perceived well-being within a university-based retirement community.
This position is designed as a mentored undergraduate research experience. The undergraduate research assistant will provide structured research support during the project's pilot fieldwork and analysis phases, including recruitment coordination, field logistics, data organization, and research documentation. The role emphasizes support and coordination rather than independent data analysis or interpretation.
Responsibilities:
• Support recruitment coordination and participant scheduling
• Assist with preparation and organization of pilot fieldwork materials (field packets, observation forms, audit and survey materials)
• Travel with the research team to Holy Cross Village in South Bend, Indiana for pilot site visits (anticipated 2–3 trips during summer and fall 2026)
• Provide on-site research support during site visits, including field notes, survey assistance, materials management, observational coding support, and de-identified data labeling
• Support data preparation and file organization (e.g., NVivo project setup, transcription coordination, secure file management)
• Organize and maintain research files, including version control and documentation standards
• Gather, organize, and manage relevant literature and reference materials
• Assist with formatting of research documentation, reports, and final deliverables
• Participate in scheduled research meetings and provide progress updates
• Perform additional research support tasks as assigned by the project leads
Note: This position does not involve leading data analysis, interpretation of findings, or independent authorship.
Requirements:
• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at Purdue University
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness and availability to travel to South Bend, Indiana with the research team for scheduled pilot site visits during summer and fall 2026. Travel costs are covered by the project (no cost to the student). Expected trips 2.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
• Ability to work Summer 2026 for approximately 3–5 hours* weekly (beginning June 9 through mid-August)
• Ability to work Fall 2026 for approximately 5–7 hours* weekly (mid-August through December 31), with peak hours during pilot fieldwork (August–September) and end-of-project deliverables (November–December)
Hours will vary by project phase and are not guaranteed weekly. Total hours not to exceed 140 across the full appointment (June 9 – December 31, 2026).
Hourly pay rate: $15 per hour.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Coursework or interest in research methods, environmental design, psychology, sociology, or related fields
• Interest in research related to the design of the built environment and/or people–environment relationships, interior design, aging, health, or social well-being
• Experience with or willingness to learn NVivo for qualitative data organization and preparation
• Availability for occasional travel to the South Bend, Indiana research site for pilot fieldwork support
Applicants should submit a resume and brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and relevant experience in addition to the application.
Direct questions regarding this position to Genell W. Ebbini, Assistant Professor (gebbini@purdue.edu).