The Granger Lab in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University is seeking part-time Research Assistants to support multiple ongoing research studies focused on classroom peer relationships, emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD), teacher practices, classroom social networks, and elementary school environments.
Research Assistants will work closely with the Project Coordinator and research team to support data collection, participant communication, data management, and general research activities across several school-based projects. This position is ideal for recent graduates or individuals interested in gaining research experience before pursuing graduate training in psychology, education, special education, child development, social work, or related fields.
This is a part-time, grant-funded position. School-based hours are required.
Assisting with school-based data collection in elementary classrooms
Administering surveys, questionnaires, and structured research activities
Assisting with data entry, coding, cleaning, and organization
Preparing study materials and research packets
Communicating with teachers and school personnel
Assisting with literature reviews and project organization
Supporting research team meetings and administrative tasks
Assisting with management of classroom social network, behavioral, and biomarker data
Maintaining confidentiality and following research protocols and IRB procedures
Completing other research-related duties as assigned
Enrollment in or completion of a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, special education, child development, human development, sociology, or related field preferred
Interest in education, child development, school psychology, or special education research
Experience working with children or school settings preferred
Strong organizational and communication skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple responsibilities
Experience with Microsoft Office and/or research data platforms preferred
Access to reliable transportation is required, as this position includes travel to local school sites for data collection and project activities
The Granger Lab studies peer relationships, classroom social dynamics, teacher decision-making, and emotional and behavioral disorders in elementary school settings. Current projects focus on classroom social networks, teacher practices that support peer relationships, classroom adversity, and intervention development to improve social and behavioral outcomes for students.
The Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University is consistently ranked among the top special education programs in the nation and is committed to improving outcomes for children and youth with disabilities through research, training, and practice.
Part-time position (approximately 20 hours/week depending on availability and project needs)
Grant-funded position
Compensation commensurate with experience
Nashville-based position with in-person responsibilities required
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
