Jobs & Career
Qualitative Research Assistant – CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute | $30–$35/Hour
Location: New York City (Hybrid)
Institution: CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute
Employment Type: Part-time (19 hours/week, grant-funded)
Duration: 9 months
Application Deadline: November 6, 2025
Start Date: January 5, 2026
Compensation: $30–$35/hour (depending on experience)
🌍 About the CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute
The CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute, located at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, is a leading academic research and action center dedicated to advancing equitable access to healthy and affordable food in urban communities.
The Institute focuses on addressing systemic barriers such as:
- Food deserts and unequal food access
- Predatory marketing practices
- Labor inequities within food systems
Through rigorous research, advocacy, and policy innovation, the Institute drives meaningful change toward food justice and health equity.
Recent projects include:
- The Food Environment Equity Dashboard for New York City
- Comprehensive studies on employment conditions in school food systems
This position provides the opportunity to work within a dynamic, socially impactful environment committed to transforming urban food systems and promoting public health.
🧠 Position Overview
The CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute is seeking Qualitative Research Assistants (RAs) to join its ongoing research initiatives.
Successful candidates will be responsible for conducting in-depth qualitative interviews (in both English and Spanish) as part of four evaluation studies led by the Institute.
The RAs will work closely with:
- Jacquelyn Sullivan, Project Coordinator
- Dr. Katy Tomaino Fraser, Director of Evaluation
You’ll contribute to the transcription, coding, and thematic analysis of collected data — helping generate actionable insights that inform food policy and equity initiatives.
🧾 Key Responsibilities
- Conduct qualitative interviews and focus groups in both English and Spanish.
- Transcribe, code, and analyze interview data using thematic analysis.
- Collaborate closely with project leaders to ensure research integrity.
- Manage qualitative data using tools like Dedoose, Excel, Qualtrics, and AirTable.
- Maintain accurate records and adhere to institutional ethics and confidentiality standards.
🎓 Required Qualifications
To be successful in this role, applicants should have:
Essential Skills:
- Advanced degree (or near completion) in Public Health, Nutrition, or related field
- Proven experience conducting qualitative interviews or focus groups
- Expertise in coding and thematic analysis of qualitative data
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in English and Spanish (speaking, reading, and writing)
Preferred Experience:
- Familiarity with Dedoose, Qualtrics, Excel, and/or AirTable
- Demonstrated ability to balance multiple assignments in a research setting
⚠️ Note: Applicants fluent in English only cannot be considered for this position.
💰 Compensation & Commitment
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Contract Duration | 9 months (grant-funded) |
| Hours per Week | 19 hours |
| Pay Range | $30–$35 per hour |
| Work Mode | Hybrid (remote & on-site) |
| Office Location | CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, NYC |
| Schedule | Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm EST (some evening interviews required) |
This role is managed through the CUNY Research Foundation and offers flexibility, professional mentorship, and meaningful engagement in community-centered research.
📩 How to Apply
Qualified and motivated candidates are encouraged to apply by emailing the following materials to Jacquelyn Sullivan at
📧 jacquelyn.sullivan@sph.cuny.edu:
- Detailed Cover Letter outlining relevant experience and language proficiency
- Resume or CV
- Availability for a 45-minute video interview (beginning the week of October 14, 2025)
📅 Application Deadline: November 6, 2025
🌟 Why Join CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute?
By joining the CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute, you become part of a mission-driven community that blends academic excellence with social impact.
You’ll work on meaningful projects that directly improve public health outcomes and food equity in New York City and beyond.
If you are passionate about activism, social change, and evidence-based public health, this role offers a rewarding way to apply your skills and contribute to real-world transformation.
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