Job Summary/Basic Functions

The Student Research Assistant will support a University-Funded Scholarship (UFS) research project examining how educators engage with AI as a thinking partner in professional learning. This project explores how moments of uncertainty (“wobble”) influence teacher decision-making, reflection, and instructional judgment within AI-supported environments.

The research assistant will work closely with the principal investigator to support multiple phases of the research process, including data collection, organization, analysis, and dissemination. Responsibilities may include reviewing and coding qualitative data (e.g., teacher reflections and interaction transcripts), assisting with literature reviews, organizing research materials, and contributing to the development of research reports and presentations.

This position provides an opportunity for hands-on experience with educational research, qualitative analysis, and emerging applications of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. The student will gain experience in research design, data interpretation, and scholarly writing, as well as exposure to innovative approaches to professional development in education.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, intellectually curious, and interested in education, psychology, or AI-supported learning. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and the ability to work independently are essential.

Minimum Qualifications

Licensure & Certifications: Must be enrolled at EKU

Preferred Qualifications:

- Major or coursework in Education, Psychology, English, Communication, or a related field
- Interest in teaching, learning, or teacher development, particularly how educators make decisions in complex classroom situations
- Familiarity with or curiosity about artificial intelligence tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) and their role in learning or professional practice
- Strong reading and writing skills, with the ability to summarize ideas and identify key themes in texts or transcripts
- Attention to detail and ability to organize and manage data (e.g., spreadsheets, documents, or coded responses)
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines, while also communicating progress clearly
- Interest in research methods, especially qualitative analysis (no prior experience required, but a plus)
- Experience with or willingness to learn tools such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or qualitative coding platforms
- Curiosity, openness to new ideas, and a willingness to engage with complex or ambiguous problems