Description:
We are seeking a highly motivated Graduate Research and Administrative Assistant to join our dynamic team in the field of Public Administration. This role offers a multifaceted opportunity to delve into diverse administration topics, including rural communities, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on small governments and education, and emotional capital. The selected candidate will engage in academic research while also providing administrative support to the Master of Public Administration (MPA) office.
This position provides a unique platform for a graduate student interested in academic research to contribute meaningfully to the field of Public Administration while gaining valuable experience in both research and administrative roles within a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.
Responsibilities:
- Data Collection and Analysis: Work with the Director to learn and employ research methods to collect and analyze data relevant to public administration, ensuring accuracy and rigor in the research process.
- Assessment Support: Provide assistance with program data analysis to help analyze and interpret data for re-accreditation and to inform future program development.
- Event Coordination: Assist in planning and organizing events, workshops, and seminars hosted by the MPA office.
- Social Media Management: Plan and post social media content for the MPA Program.
- Project Management: Manage and prioritize tasks efficiently to ensure timely completion of administrative and research-related duties.
- Administrative Support: Provide assistance with day-to-day administrative tasks such as managing correspondence, scheduling appointments, and organizing office files for the MPA office.
- Student Support: Assist students with inquiries, provide information about program requirements, and support student engagement initiatives.
- Research Exploration: Conduct exploratory research on political ideology, rural communities, and the influence of AI on small governments.
- Literature Review: Review and synthesize existing literature to inform research methodologies and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the chosen topics.
- Writing and Publication: Prepare research papers and reports for potential academic publications, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge in reputable journals.
Qualifications:
- Educational Background: Junior, Senior, or Graduate student enrolled in Public Administration, Political Science, Communications, Business or a related field.
- Research Interest: Demonstrated interest in political ideology, rural communities, and the impact of AI on small governments.
- Strong Writing Abilities: Excellent written communication skills with the ability to articulate research findings clearly and concisely.
- Analytical Skills: Proficiency in utilizing advanced research methods and data analysis techniques.
- Initiative and Independence: Proven ability to work independently, demonstrating initiative in research exploration and problem-solving.
This internship is part of the Fall 2026 Professional Internship Program. To be eligible for the program you must:
* Be enrolled as an SUU student during the course of the internship.
* Have and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
* Be willing to work 10 to 20 hours per week.
* Provide thoughtful responses in your application.
We review applications and interview candidates as they are received until the role is filled.
Contact Information:
Donna Handley
donnahandley@suu.edu