Assistant Research Scientist

$75K–$110K/yri4h ago

Higher Ed Research Community Engagement Social Science Lab Management Higher Education

Role Snapshot

The Observing Civic Engagement Lab at IU Bloomington seeks an Assistant Research Scientist to lead lab operations and personnel while conducting independent research on community organizations using systematic social observation. The work aims to inform local leaders on fostering a thriving community.

Key Responsibilities: The role involves managing the lab and its staff, conducting original research and creative activity under a tenured faculty member's direction, and collecting and analyzing systematic social observation data on community organization meetings and events.

Skills & Tools: Required skills include familiarity with systematic social observation methodology and experience working in a research lab. Preferred skills include project management (PMP or CMP), managing research assistants, grant writing and budgeting, and community-engaged research.

Qualifications: Candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant field (ABD candidates are not considered) and have at least one year of successful postdoctoral research experience.

Compensation: $75K–$110K/yr (estimated)

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Job Description

Assistant Research Scientist

Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.

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Posting Details

Position Details

Title

Assistant Research Scientist

Appointment Status

Non-Tenure Track

Department

IU Bloomington Public & Environmental Affairs

Location

Bloomington

Position Summary

The Observing Civic Engagement Lab seeks an Assistant Research Scientist to lead and manage the lab and personnel while conducting original, independent research and creative activity under the direction of a tenured faculty member.

What goes on inside community organizations—the religious congregations, service clubs, arts groups, advocacy organizations, and hobby groups that permeate communities? Our lab uses an innovative technique known as systematic social observation (SSO) to collect detailed data on what happens at meetings, events, and activities held by community organizations. Analyses of these data will improve understanding of how community organizations work and will help local leaders foster a lively, thriving community.

Location: Bloomington, Indiana

Review of applications will begin immediately. Applications received by November 20, 2026, will be receive full consideration. To apply, please submit a letter of application, CV, and contact information for up to three references to https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/34818.

Basic Qualifications

Required:

PhD in relevant field (ABD candidates will not be considered)
At least one year of successful postdoctoral research experience
Familiarity with systematic social observation methodology
Experience working in a research lab

Department Contact for Questions

Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Professor Matthew Baggetta baggettm@iu.edu, O’Neill School of Public & Environmental Affairs, Bloomington, Indiana.