Responsibilities:

• Research Assistance: Identify and analyze the research, policy, and advocacy landscape related to girls in the Chicagoland area, engaging with stakeholders such as academic researchers, community organizations, advocacy groups, and government agencies.

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• Stakeholder Engagement: Assemble and lead a team of interns and the existing Research Assistant to comprehensively review and document Chicagoland researchers and organizations focused on urban girl issues in research, advocacy, and policy.

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• Database Development: Create and maintain a comprehensive “landscape” database that includes details on researchers, institutions, published works, reports, topics of interest, and contact information, ensuring data accuracy and currency.

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• Data Collection and Management: Gather and organize data from various sources, maintaining high standards of quality and ensuring data is readily accessible for analysis.

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• Data Analysis: Collaborate with the Quality Initiatives team to conduct quantitative and qualitative data analysis using appropriate methods and analytical tools.

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• Report Writing: Assist in the development of research reports, presentations, and summaries that effectively communicate findings, utilizing visualizations and infographics as needed.

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• Evaluation Support: Contribute to program evaluations by helping design evaluation frameworks and developing relevant data collection instruments.

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• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with team members on interdisciplinary projects, sharing insights and expertise to enhance research outcomes.

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• Research Innovation: Stay updated on the latest research methodologies and best practices in evaluation and data analysis, introducing innovative approaches to the team.

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• Ethical Standards: Uphold ethical guidelines and data privacy regulations when handling sensitive information and research data.

Qualifications:

• Enrollment in a relevant graduate program: Applicants should be currently pursuing a graduate degree in fields such as youth development, social work, education, or a related discipline.

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• Strong research background: Demonstrated experience in academic or professional research, including literature reviews and data collection, is preferred.

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• Communication skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.

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• Analytical mindset: A keen eye for detail and a passion for understanding and interpreting data to inform decision-making.

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• Team player: Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment and take initiative when needed.

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• Time management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

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• Ethical conduct: Demonstrated commitment to maintaining ethical standards in research and evaluation practices.

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• Applications Use: Proficient in Microsoft Suite, CANVA, Survey Monkey, and Google Suite required. Additional understanding of Adobe Premiere Pro a plus.

Duration and Compensation:

The Research Assistance is a position from October 2024 - April 2025, with the possibility of extension based on project final report and availability. We are anticipating this applicant would work 20 hours per week. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and in the form of a stipend between $1,000 and 5,000, dependent on experience.

How to apply:

Applicants should submit the following materials to CUG's President and Executive Director, Ayeshia Garrett, by Tuesday, October 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. CST:

• A resume that includes GPA, relevant coursework, and work experience -

• A cover letter 

• Two research-based writing samples

• Please specify your available start date in your application.

Send all materials with the subject line “CUG Research Assistance for School Year 2024-2025” to: Cugchicago@gmail.com.