Graduate Student Research Specialist (Part-Time): Home

The Research Assistance and Instruction Department at Ekstrom Library seeks UofL graduate students to serve as part-time Research Specialists (approximately 10-20 hours per week). These positions work as consultants, instructors, and ambassadors to advance the library’s strategic research initiatives in the sciences and other areas. Research Specialists learn from and collaborate closely with librarians, developing skills in literature searching, information literacy, scholarly communications, and the academic publishing lifecycle. Research Specialists also provide direct research assistance to library patrons and have the opportunity to help shape and participate in outreach and educational programming in their areas of interest.

We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. While we are actively seeking candidates with an interest in the sciences, we will also seriously consider applicants from other disciplines who may bring a fresh or unique perspective to the job.

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience/education. Work schedule is flexible but does not include evenings and weekends. Expected work hours are approximately 10-20 hours per week, with the possibility of some additional hours if interested.

Funding is available for positions through December 2022 with the possibility of extension.

Please note that you are not eligible for this part-time job opportunity if you are currently employed in a graduate assistantship position at UofL.

Responsibilities

• Teach and assist with information literacy instruction, citation management training (e.g., EndNote), faculty development workshops, and other programming.
• Consult with undergraduate and graduate researchers, faculty, and other patrons at the walk-up research assistance desk and by appointment.
• Help advance the library’s strategic research and education initiatives, especially in the sciences, through active promotion of relevant tools, resources, and services (online databases, open access scholarship, open educational resources, data services, etc.). 
• Create and update online guides and tutorials focusing on key library resources and services.
• Develop and work on special projects related to library collections, outreach, and education.

Why Apply?

• Develop advanced research, teaching, and communication skills relevant for future academic positions or careers in the private sector. 
• Learn about key trends in scholarly communications, digital scholarship, information literacy, and other areas.
• Network with faculty, graduate students, and librarians across and within disciplinary areas of interest.
• Design and contribute to special projects aligned with your personal areas of interest.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an academic area supported by Ekstrom Library (natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, humanities, education, social work, or business). 
• Currently enrolled as a graduate student in any field (Masters or Doctoral) at the University of Louisville.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations. 
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong interest in research, teaching, and scholarly communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and/or relevant experience in the sciences or other STEM areas.
• Teaching experience and/or experience in customer service.
• General knowledge of the academic research and publishing lifecycle.