Research Assistant/Associate (Rural Sociology)
About this role
This is a two-year limited-term position. Continued employment is contingent upon the availability of funding.
The individual selected for this role will assist researchers with planning, maintaining, and completing research programs and projects focused on the discovery of new knowledge, techniques, and concepts. This position requires fundamental scientific and research knowledge, skills, and abilities and is responsible for performing duties in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, regulations, and laws.
This position will include regularly scheduled travel to data collection sites across Alabama, with the possibility of some out of state travel for data collection or research meetings.
Responsibilities
- Assists in the development of project proposals, plans and protocols.
- Conducts routine or fundamental experiments, investigations and/or studies related to programs and projects in pursuit of new knowledge, techniques and concepts.
- Assists with logistical considerations to include equipment, materials, and labor needs.
- Assist with both qualitative and quantitative social science data collection and analysis.
- Collects data/samples related to others' research and in routine cases.
- Records, compiles, processes and analyzes data/samples.
- Documents results and observations in writing as well as presenting results to others.
- May assist in the preparation of research results for publication or presentation at conferences to include assisting in literature reviews and assisting in the writing of results and discussions.
- May instruct students and/or supervise others' research in area of expertise.
Qualifications
Research Assistant
Level I:
- Bachelor's degree in content specific area of research.
Level II:
- Bachelor's degree in content specific area of research and 2 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
Level III:
- Bachelor's degree in content specific area of research and 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
Level IV:
- Bachelor's degree in content specific area of research and 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
Research Associate
Level I:
- Master's degree in content specific area of research.
Level II:
- Master's degree in content specific area of research and 2 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
Level III:
- Master's degree in content specific area of research and 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
Level IV:
- Master's degree in content specific area of research and 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols.
Scope of Education:
- Rural Sociology, social sciences, agriculture, economics, business, political science, community, development, evaluation, or forestry/wildlife sciences.
Licenses & Certifications:
- Valid U.S. driver's license required.
SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED FOR EXPERIENCE: Yes, When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.
Contract Type
Limited Term
Why Work at Auburn?
- Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
- Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
- We’re Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
- Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
- A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
- Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!
Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
Posted Date
7/30/2026
Company at a glance
EAGLES is a comprehensive transition program (CTP) for students with intellectual disabilities. The program provides a postsecondary education opportunity for students with intellectual disabilities to engage in a two or four-year campus experience.
It is a non-degreed program focusing on (1) academic enrichment, (2) personal and social skills, (3) independence, (4) health and wellness, and (5) integrated work experiences. Students in the program receive an inclusive post-secondary education providing them with an enriching and rewarding Auburn experience as they prepare to transition to gainful employment, that aligns with the student’s strengths and interests and independent living. The EAGLES program operates to enable students to be contributing members of society both now and in the future.
Top Benefits
- Educational opportunities
- Work/life balance
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