Description
The Assistant Research Scientist will support our early childhood research project by conducting one-on-one assessments with preschool-aged children in school settings. These assessments are critical to understanding early development and learning among culturally and linguistically diverse children, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities. The Assistant Research Scientist will visit preschool classrooms, engage directly with children, and collet high-quality developmental data in accordance with research protocols.
Responsibilities:
- Conducting Assessments in Preschool Settings: Administer standardized developmental assessments (e.g., language, early literacy, cognitive) with 3- to 5-year-old children in a quiet space within their school. This requires following structured protocols and using child-friendly, culturally sensitive approaches.
- Recording and Entering Data: Accurately record assessment responses on paper or digital forms and enter data into secure databases such as REDCap or Google Sheets.
- Spanish-English Communication: Engage with Spanish-speaking children and staff as needed, ensuring clear communication and culturally responsive practices.
- Team Coordination: Communicate regularly with the Project Coordinator and other researchers to report progress, troubleshoot scheduling, and support team goals.
- Training and Compliance: Participate in hands-on training and adhere to strictly to all research protocols, maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards throughout.
In compliance with NYC's Pay Transparency Act, the hourly base rate for this position is $18-$20/hour. New York University considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer.
Per NYU's remote-work policy, this position is expected to be fully in-person.
This role does not involve supervision duties.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Fluent in Spanish (spoken) - required for assessments with Spanish-speaking children.
- Experience working with young children, ideally in early childhood or educational settings.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, especially with children and educators.
- Reliable, punctual, and organized.
- Ability to follow detailed research protocols.
- Comfortable working in busy preschool environments.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and research ethics.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience administering assessments or working on research projects
- Background in psychology, education, child development, or a related field
Evaluation Structure:
- Initial Observation Period: During the first few weeks of data collection, the Assistant Research Scientist will be observed by a supervisor or experienced team member to ensure assessments are being conducted with fidelity.
- Ongoing Check-Ins: Informal feedback will be provided regularly through check-ins with the Project Coordinator or supervising researcher.
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