Research Assistant

Job Summary

This role sits within the Headen Research Group and supports an ongoing evaluation initiative focused on improving Black maternal health in Philadelphia. The work is tied to a community-engaged project with local birthwork and community-based organizations, including efforts centered on queer Black birthing people. The objective is to help co-create and carry out an evaluation approach that reflects the outcomes, priorities, and mission of the partner organization.

The research assistant will contribute to stakeholder engagement, relationship development, identifying capacity needs, qualitative research activities, analysis, and the preparation of reports, manuscripts, and other project outputs.

The Headen Research Group uses multi-method research to study how structural inequity is embedded in neighborhoods and how it shapes racial disparities in maternal and infant health. Its work combines epidemiology, systems science, and community-engaged research to produce practical evidence that can support healthier outcomes for Black birthing people. The group is an interdisciplinary and inclusive environment focused on understanding structural racism and its effects during the childbearing period, with the aim of helping Black birthing people and other structurally marginalized birthing populations thrive.

Essential Functions

• Contribute to the design, refinement, and rollout of evaluation measures for the partner community-based organization.
• Help gather and interpret qualitative information from both current and prior program activities.
• Support literature searches and manage references for project deliverables and dissemination materials.
• Assist with drafting, revising, and formatting research materials such as meeting agendas and notes, reports, manuscripts, presentations, and proposals.
• Support institutional review board processes, including submissions and ongoing management.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in Public Health or Social Work.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience.

Location

University City, Philadelphia, PA.

Additional Information

This is a part-time temporary, non-exempt position. Compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate’s background and experience, the department’s budget, and internal equity considerations.

Benefit details are available in the university’s Per Diem/Casual/Temporary Benefit Fact Sheet.

Application Instructions

Applicants should include both a resume/CV and a cover letter with their submission. Applications will be reviewed once a suitable pool of candidates has been identified.