Research Assistant

I. JOB SUMMARY

Main Topic: Physical Geography
Secondary Topic: Environment and Society 

Overview: Those who become research assistants are typically individuals who would either like to gain more research experience in their chosen field, advance their education in that field, or they may simply enjoy being part of a research team in the field of their interest. Regardless of their individual career ambitions, research assistants typically have a keen interest and an education in the area to which their work in research relates. The educational requirements for becoming a research assistant may vary by field of employment, and by specific employer. Research assistants are hired by principal researchers (also known as principal investigators, or project directors) to assist with conducting research projects (in any field; science, business, economics, social science, psychology and many others) by performing various duties related to a study. Research assistants are typically well versed in the subject area of the project they work on. Some typical duties may include: Assist with data collection. Use computer programs to record and organize data. Assist with data analysis. Disseminate results of research activities. Contribute ideas relating to improving research processes. Work with other research team members and principle investigator. 

Geographers at work: Physical Geographers, Human Geographers, Economic Geographers, Environmental Geographers 

Recommended College Courses: Physical Geography, Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, Environmental Management, Quantitative Methods, Human Geography, Regional Geography, World Geography, Qualitative Methods, Geographic Information Systems, Cultural Geography 

Skills: Quantitative Methods, Qualitative Methods, Regional Studies, Environmental Management, Human-Environment Systems, etc.  

Occupation Group: Office and Administrative Support

Learn more about Research Assistants from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes194061.htm