How Do I Become a Research Assistant?
Most complex studies performed by universities or hospitals require some type of research assistant. Research assistants are hired by leading faculty members to assist with conducting research projects. They are needed to perform various duties related to the study and are typically well versed in the study’s subject matter. In order to become a research assistant, one usually needs academic experience in the research subject area, knowledge of operating a database and a specified minimum grade point average (GPA).
To become a research assistant, it might be best to start by talking to a professor in your field of study. Most professors hire students to work as research assistants if they are majoring in the field to which the study relates. For example, if faculty members are conducting research on the social psychology of business as it relates to marketing tactics, professors will most likely seek candidates who are majoring in sociology, psychology or marketing. Many students seek out research assistant positions for class credit or project experience relevant to graduate school.
A strong knowledge of the subject matter generally is required due to the typical duties that research assistants perform. Research assistants are often responsible for conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data and preparing interview questions for study participants. They may also prepare materials for grant agencies, maintain interview records, manage project e-mails and prepare articles or presentations related to the project.
To become a research assistant, database skills may be required. Some professors may require research assistants to work in database programs, such as Microsoft Access or FileMaker. Research assistants may be responsible for compiling data and entering it into a database. They may also need to filter and organize the data in a manner that is conducive to the focus of the study.
Candidates may also need to maintain a minimum GPA to become a research assistant; many faculty researchers require a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 GPA scale, for instance. Students working as research assistants may obtain pass or fail credit, or they may volunteer to present their research in the graduate applications process. Most undergraduate students do not receive payment for their work as research assistants.
Graduate students working as research assistants usually receive a stipend for their work, but their duties tend to be more complex. Graduate research assistants often take a more active role in the project, preparing them to lead their own projects after graduate school. They are typically responsible for supervising undergraduate research assistants, as well as compiling, analyzing and summarizing the data being presented for the project.
If one is not currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate school and wants to become a research assistant, it is advisable to contact local universities to inquire about outside hiring on research projects. Some universities will occasionally hire outside candidates with little experience to perform more mundane tasks, such data entry and filing. Most faculty researchers prefer to hire outside candidates who are seeking experiencing in order to apply for graduate school.
Written by Simone Lawson
