Data & Society Research Institute is looking for a few good Research Assistants!

Data & Society is an NYC-based think/do tank focused on social, cultural, and ethical issues arising from data-centric technological development. For more information, visit http://www.datasociety.net.

Data & Society is spearheaded by danah boyd and includes an amazing cast of fellows, researchers, and advisors. RAs will work with all of the above, moving between projects as appropriate, depending on skill sets and needs.

A successful candidate will be a self-starter who is passionate and knowledgeable about the social and cultural implications of technology. Strong skills in writing, organization, and academic research are essential, as are time-management and multi-tasking. Minimal qualifications are a BA or equivalent degree in a legal, humanities, social science, or related discipline and some familiarity with the study of technology and society.  Successful candidates will most likely have prior experience doing RA type work.

Job responsibilities will include:
– Sourcing and curating relevant literature and research materials
– Producing literature reviews and/or annotated bibliographies
– Editing manuscripts
– Assisting with research project, meeting, and event organization
– Providing background briefs on policies, issues, and stakeholders
– Coordinating researchers and synthesizing their work
– Conduct and or assist with some original research

The RA will also get to collaborate on ongoing research, work with external thought leaders, attend events hosted by Data & Society, and help produce influential materials that shape public thinking.  Depending on the specific RA project, some RAs will have the opportunity to co-author publications.  Quite often, RAs are expected to translate academic material into public-facing documents.

While we are predominantly looking for full-time (40 hours per week) RAs, we are open to part-time RAs (20-30 hours per week) as well.  RAs will work on site in New York, NY. Residency is a requirement, and candidates must have the ability to work legally in the United States. This is a one-year position, paid hourly, with flexible daytime hours. Health insurance is available for those who work at least 30 hours per week. We will be hiring on a rolling basis.

Current projects that require research assistants focus on:
– Data, discrimination, and civil rights
– Future of labor and work
– Technology's role in human rights
– Socio-technical education policy
– Ethical “big data” research practices

This position is ideal for junior scholars who will be applying to Master's or PhD programs in Communication, Media Studies, Sociology, Anthropology, Information Studies, and related fields and who want to develop and hone their research skills before entering a graduate program. Current New York-based MA/PhD students are welcome to apply provided they are able to commit to 20-40 hours of on-site work per week.

RAs are given a lot of freedom, responsibility, and discretion to fulfill the work. Candidates must be comfortable taking initial direction, asking questions, managing time, and pursuing the work with limited supervision.  The work often requires RAs to pivot quickly as the project mandate shifts. This position will help RAs hone skills necessary to a successful scholarly career, but it will not work for someone seeking daily mentorship.

To apply, please send an email to danah boyd at [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> with the subject “RA Application” and include the following attachments:

– One-page, single-spaced personal statement, including a description of research experience, interests, and professional goals
– CV or resume
– Writing sample (preferably a literature review or a scholarly-styled article)
– Links to online presence (e.g., blog, homepage, Twitter, journalistic endeavors, etc.)
– The names and email addresses of two recommenders
– A cover letter that includes citizenship/legal residency status, number of hours available to work per week, current city of residence, available start date, current student status, and any other practical consideration that may be important for us to know

We will begin reviewing applications immediately and will continue to do so until we find appropriate candidates.

Feel free to contact us should you have any questions about the position. Questions about the opportunity or process will not reflect negatively on your application.


The work and well-being of the Data & Society Research Institute is strengthened by the diversity of our network and our differences in background, culture, experience, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, and much more. We welcome applications from people of color, women, the LGBTQIA community, and persons with disabilities.




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