Research Opportunities

Research Assistant Expectations

IDEA regularly employs undergraduate students and offers them the opportunity to work with real-world data, support community-based initiatives, and assist with research that connects citizens and policymakers worldwide. Tasks for our Research Assistants include assisting with the implementation and execution of our deliberative town halls, technical efforts to code data for upcoming and past projects, support for our on-campus programming, helping graduate students with their research, and even spearheading their own research for an undergraduate thesis. Joining the IDEA lab offers students an opportunity to learn and engage with a network of researchers and practitioners who are eager to help them grow and develop as young researchers.

If you are interested in working on research projects with IDEA, and you are a current OSU student, please use the form below to apply. If you qualify for work-study benefits, IDEA can hire you to get involved in a research project that would be of great academic benefit to you. Many of our projects often have flexible working hours, allowing you to work on them whenever it best fits your schedule.

If you join the IDEA lab, you can expect to work anywhere from 5–15 hours per week. It is essential to note that IDEA is not always hiring; however, if you are interested in our work or find a particular project particularly interesting, we encourage you to apply or reach out to our team.

Process

Students typically go through an onboarding period, where they will learn about past and upcoming projects IDEA is working on and their role within the lab. We will then have you begin working on projects that align with your skills and the lab’s needs. As a lab, IDEA holds bi-weekly meetings to discuss problems, present and practice research talks, and keep everyone involved. These are not required for undergraduates, but they are encouraged to attend.

IDEA is particularly interested in hiring students who are planning for graduate or doctoral study, those interested in developing a thesis tied to faculty research, or those with strong analytical or technical skills. You do not have to meet all these requirements, so if you are interested in working with us, we encourage you to apply or reach out to us with any of your questions.

Application Instructions

1. Complete this application by typing directly into the form below.
2. There are space limits, so please be concise.
3. Submit this form by clicking the SUBMIT button below.
4. You’ll be redirected to a confirmation page.
5. That’s it!