Casual Hourly - Research Assistant

Princeton University is hiring a temporary Research Assistant for its Behavioral Science and Policy Lab to conduct mixed-methods research on utility-scale rebates in New Jersey. The role involves qualitative interviews, transcript analysis, and compiling data for publication. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and 2+ years of research experience. This position offers professional mentorship and is suitable for those interested in a research career focused on social issues.
About the position

The Behavioral Science and Policy Lab (BSPL) at Princeton University is seeking a temporary researcher to contribute to mixed-methods research focused on utility-scale rebates in New Jersey. This position is directed by Dr. Elke Weber and aims to apply insights from human motivation and decision-making processes to address social problems, particularly in the context of climate change. The researcher will play a crucial role in conducting qualitative interviews with utility decision-makers and analyzing the resulting transcripts. The findings from this research will be compiled into a manuscript intended for publication in an energy policy-related journal. This role is ideal for individuals considering a research career in mixed-methods social science and who are interested in applying their research skills to real-world issues. The position also offers opportunities for professional mentorship and skill development, particularly for those preparing to apply for a PhD program.

Responsibilities
• Conducting mixed-methods research on utility-scale rebates in New Jersey.
,
• Assisting with qualitative interviews with utility decision-makers.
,
• Analyzing interview transcripts generated throughout the research.
,
• Compiling various utility-scale rebates for residential consumers into an energy program database.
,
• Conducting interviews with key representatives from various organizations to gather insights on residential energy rebates.
,
• Assisting in qualitative data management, including cleaning and data analysis.

Requirements
• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Public Policy, or a similar quantitative behavioral science.
,
• 2+ years of research experience in an academic research lab or similar environment.
,
• Expertise in survey experiments and the Qualtrics platform.
,
• Familiarity with R Statistical Software and inferential statistics.
,
• Familiarity with NVivo for qualitative data analysis.
,
• General knowledge of social science research methods, statistics, and experimental studies involving human subjects.
,
• Self-motivated, highly organized, conscientious, and a good team player.

Nice-to-haves
• Master's Degree in a relevant field (any quantitative behavioral science).
,
• 2+ years of research experience in social psychology, public policy, business, or a related field.
,
• Prior research experience with field partners, including companies, communities, and other stakeholders.
,
• Interest in renewable energy and climate policy.

Benefits