Graduate Research Assistant, (w/o Tuition Benefits)

Minimum Qualifications:
Limited to current registered students in a graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree program at the University of Minnesota.
Pursuing a graduate degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Civil Engineering, or a related field
Familiarity with data analysis methods
Familiarity with geospatial data processing concepts and tools
Experience preparing research reports and/or publications

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience using data and geospatial analysis software such as R, ArcGIS, QGIS, and PostGIS
Experience achieving data analysis goals using computer programming languages such as Python and SQL
Experience using LaTeX for document publication

Overview:
This position supports research conducted by the Accessibility Observatory in the Center for Transportation Studies. The position reports to the director of the Accessibility Observatory. The Accessibility Observatory ( is a leading national resource for the research and application of accessibility-based transportation system evaluation.

This position will focus on planning, researching, and producing reports analyzing patterns and trends in existing nationwide job accessibility data.

Essential Functions:
Develop reports (80%)
Analyze existing job accessibility data
Identify and summarize important trends and patterns
Propose report outline(s)
Develop report materials and coordinate contributions from other team members
Develop draft reports and revised based on review feedback

Outreach (20%)
Assist with planning for report publication and outreach
Present report contents to various audiences

This position supports research conducted by the Accessibility Observatory in the Center for Transportation Studies. The position reports to the director of the Accessibility Observatory. The Accessibility Observatory ( is a leading national resource for the research and application of accessibility-based transportation system evaluation.

This position will support the Observatory’s work under a contract with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to estimate statewide household vehicle miles traveled (VMT) data, as well as other projects related to destination access, transportation planning, and land use planning.

Student positions are a form of financial support while pursuing an education at the University of Minnesota.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail View email address on jobs.institutedata.com or call View phone number on jobs.institutedata.com.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. This position is not eligible for H-1B or green card sponsorship.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.