As part of Penn State's new Data Stewardship Program, there are several research projects dedicated to helping make Penn State research more accessible and impactful by supporting data sharing. You will gain hands-on experience in open science principles, research data management, and research methods. In particular, we are looking for a research assistant to help with one of the following projects:
- Analyzing user engagement trends with ScholarSphere, Penn State’s institutional repository (e.g., human vs. bot activity)
- Evaluating the usability, documentation quality, and ethical compliance of datasets in public repositories like the Open Science Framework.
- A systematic review of existing studies on researcher data management and sharing needs, skills, and barriers.
- Designing and delivering a survey to Penn State researchers to identify opportunities for reducing the burden of data sharing
- User-interface and user engagement testing of a data management and sharing plan chatbot
Responsibilities: Assist with research projects supporting open science at Penn State, including survey design, literature review, data analysis, and usability testing.
Minimum Qualifications: strong communication skills, interest in research and data, and ability to work independently
In good academic standing and able to speak and communicate fluently in English.
We typically require at least 8-10 hours per week and a minimum commitment of 2 semesters.
Additional skills include: attention to detail, reliable, works well in a team environment, and comfortable communicating with chidlren and their parents.
Please include your CV.
Please contact Dr. Alaina Pearce (azp271@psu.edu) for application form.