Research Assistant (Pre-doctoral Fellow)

Work with the Center for the Study of Los Angeles (StudyLA) to support research projects that respond to the needs of Los Angeles while gaining intensive training and mentorship in social science research. The Pre-Doctoral Fellow will assist in the design, implementation, and analysis of research projects, including public opinion surveys and community-based initiatives, while preparing for graduate study in the social sciences.

Position Specific Responsibilities

• Supports StudyLA in its mission to assist students, staff, and faculty become agents for social justice.

• Supports senior leadership in the planning, programming, and execution of research projects and associated activities, meetings, and events.

• Gathers and organizes project-related information and assists with project-related data/information collection, management and reporting.

• Assists with basic quantitative and qualitative data analysis under the guidance of senior researchers.

• Contributes to research reports, presentations, and written materials.

• Expands relationships within the university, the Los Angeles community, other academic communities, and other relevant individuals and organizations

• Increases awareness about StudyLA research and help increase use of StudyLA data by other professionals and students.

• Helps represent StudyLA at professional activities and meetings, both inside and outside the university.

• Manages multiple assignments with guidance and prioritizes tasks effectively.

• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity, leadership, professionalism, and sound decision-making ability; work respectfully with people from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds

• Performs other related duties.

Loyola Marymount University Expectations

Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values or the LMU. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that models high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Requisite Qualifications

• Typically a bachelor’s degree in political science, sociology, urban studies, public policy, or related field from Loyola Marymount University. Recent LMU graduate (within two years of graduation).

• Demonstrated interest in pursuing graduate study (doctoral, professional, or related program).

• Strong interest in social science research, public opinion, and/or community-based research.

• Basic familiarity with research methods and data analysis (coursework acceptable).

• Demonstrates strong organizational and time management skills with exceptional attention to detail; follow through.

• Inspires new ideas and fresh approaches.

• Has a high energy and passion for the LMU and StudyLA missions.

• Has a flexible and adaptable style. Ability to be proactive and able to anticipate the needs of the StudyLA and implement a course of action.

• Exhibits excellent communication skills, both written and oral; possess excellent writing, grammar, proofreading, and punctuation skills. Spanish fluency is a plus.

• Ability to perform duties with speed and accuracy.

• Understands modern office practices, procedures, and use of equipment; knowledge of software programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point). Interest in policy issues or urban politics is a plus.

• Possesses the ability to work both independently without close oversight, but also a team player who productively engages with others at varying levels of seniority within and outside of LMU.

Fellowship Expectations

• One-year, full-time commitment to work with StudyLA.

• Participation in regular mentorship meetings with faculty and research staff.

• Active engagement in research projects and skill development activities.

• Commitment to applying to graduate or professional programs during the fellowship year.

• Participation in service activities aligned with LMU’s mission.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position.

Staff Term (Fixed Term)

Salary range

$22.26 - $26.68 Salary commensurate with education and experience.

Please note that this position may not be eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Loyola Marymount University, a Carnegie classified R2 institution in the mainstream of American Catholic higher education, seeks outstanding applicants who value its mission and share its commitment to inclusive excellence, the education of the whole person, and the building of a just society. LMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment as defined by federal, state and local law. We invite all persons in the full diversity of their being, life experience, and beliefs to apply. (Visit for more information.)

LMU is committed to providing equal access to employment opportunities and ensuring a comprehensive recruitment and selection process for all applicants.

Individuals who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the application, interview, or selection process may contact Human Resources at View email address on aiapply.co or by phone at View phone number on aiapply.co. Applicants who use relay services or other assistive communication technologies are welcome to utilize those services when contacting Human Resources.

When contacting Human Resources, please include the job posting number, title of the position and department for which you are applying. Applicants are not required to disclose the nature of a disability or provide medical information when requesting an accommodation during the recruitment process.

LMU will work with applicants in a timely and interactive process to identify and provide reasonable accommodations consistent with applicable federal and state law.