Public Engagement Research Assistantship (RA) for College of Education 2025-2026 

A partnership with the Humanities Research Institute 

Applications are now open to doctoral students in the College of Education to apply for a yearlong 50% Public Engagement research assistantship (RAship). This RAship is created in partnership between the College of Education and the Humanities Research Institute. 

The Public Engagement RAship advances community-engaged research partnerships between faculty and community organizations in Urbana-Champaign by supporting an RA. A doctoral student in the College of Education will work with a faculty member mentor and a mentor from a community organization or school to address critical issues broadly related to the humanities (examples include education, public health, poverty, and/or social inequity). Each doctoral student will contribute to predominantly qualitative research study designed to benefit community members served by the community partner organization. The focus of the research should originate from a community need.

Eligibility:  

• Applications are due by January 30, 2025 
• Candidates will be notified in March 2025. 
• Applicants should be prepared to provide the following materials: 
  • Description of proposed community-engaged research project including how the project originated and what community need is being addressed through the project (max. 300 words) 
  • Graduate student statement of interest (written by graduate student nominee) (max. 300 words) 
  • Mentorship plan written by faculty member mentor (max. 200 words) 
  • Contact information for community mentor.