Graduate Research Fellow

The Center for DEI Innovation & Leadership at Oberlin College & Conservatory invites applications for a Graduate Fellow for the 2026–2027 academic year. This is a part-time (20 hours per week), on-site fellowship open to currently enrolled Master’s and doctoral students. The fellowship runs September 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027, with the possibility of a one-year extension. The fellow will receive a stipend of $14,400 for the academic year, paid at $1,600 per month. Working closely with the Executive Director and the Center Operations Manager, the Graduate Fellow will contribute to a focused portfolio of Center work spanning the Changemakers Undergraduate Fellowship, applied research support, and program and event coordination. This fellowship is designed to offer meaningful professional development in racial equity leadership and nonprofit program management, including regular mentorship from the Executive Director, participation in Center convenings, and opportunities to contribute to public-facing scholarship. Key Responsibilities Changemakers Fellowship Program Support Supports fellowship programming alongside the Executive Director and Center Operations Manager, contributing to Fellow engagement and key program touchpoints across the academic year. Coordinates guest speaker outreach, scheduling, and hospitality for fellowship programming, including the Presidential Series and the Racial Equity Leadership Lunch. Participates in structured Fellow check-ins at key program transitions, in partnership with the Executive Director and Center Operations Manager, documenting progress and surfacing Fellow needs. Supports the design and facilitation of workshops and Fellows Circles, contributing content knowledge and facilitation support as appropriate. Research and Applied Scholarship Supports the Executive Director and post-doctoral researcher in advancing the Center’s research agenda, including the longitudinal mixed-methods study of the Changemakers Fellowship. Assists with literature reviews, qualitative data organization, and the preparation of research briefs and reports that advance the Center’s thought leadership. Contributes background research and content development in support of the Center’s signature research-informed programming and grant submissions as needed. Program and Event Coordination Assists the Center Operations Manager with program logistics, Fellow-facing communications, and administrative coordination as needed across the fellowship lifecycle. Coordinates event documentation at Center events, capturing key moments and preparing post-event summaries that support institutional memory and the Annual Impact Report. Manages discrete program coordination projects as assigned by the Executive Director, from scoping through completion. Qualifications Required: Current enrollment in a Master’s or doctoral program at an accredited institution. Demonstrated commitment to racial equity, social justice, or related fields through coursework, research, or professional experience. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment. Availability to work on-site at Oberlin College up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Preferred Background in sociology, education, higher education, public policy, nonprofit management, or a related field. Experience with qualitative or mixed-methods research. Experience in program coordination, event planning, or student-facing programming. Familiarity with racial equity frameworks and applied DEI practice. Application Process Applicants should submit the following materials: A cover letter describing relevant experience, research interests, and alignment with the Center’s mission and the goals of this fellowship. A current curriculum vitae or resume. A brief writing sample (5–10 pages) demonstrating analytical or applied writing relevant to racial equity, leadership, or a related field. Contact information for two professional or academic references. Email materials to View email address on click.appcast.io. Review of applications will begin immediately. Priority will be given to applications submitted before July 10, 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr Oberlin College