Weber State University Hiring: Graduate Research Assistant (MPC Program) – Apply Now!

Are you a passionate graduate student eager to gain hands-on research experience while earning extra income? Weber State University (WSU) is offering an exciting Graduate Research Assistant position for motivated students interested in communication research, newsroom practices, and diversity in media education.

This paid research opportunity is a great chance to build your academic and professional portfolio, work closely with experienced faculty, and contribute to groundbreaking research on communities of practice within student and professional newsrooms.

🎓 About the Position

Position Title: MPC Graduate Research Assistant
Institution: Weber State University (Ogden, Utah, USA)
Hourly Pay: $18.00/hour
Work Hours: 10–15 hours per week
Duration: 1 month (Schedule set by faculty adviser)
Application Deadline: November 15, 2025
Review of Applications Begins: August 6, 2025

💡 Job Overview

The Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) will support a faculty-led project exploring the existence of communities of practice in student newsrooms at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and in remote professional newsroom environments.

This position involves research, analysis, and collaboration with a team of experienced researchers — perfect for students pursuing a career in communication, journalism, or media research.

🧠 Key Responsibilities

As a GRA, your tasks will include:

• Conducting literature reviews and summarizing academic sources
• Assisting with data collection and updating datasets
• Helping design focus group and interview questions
• Identifying suitable participants for research activities
• Collaborating with faculty and other assistants to achieve project goals

You’ll gain valuable academic research skills, strengthen your analytical writing, and enhance your communication expertise in a professional setting.

✅ Required Qualifications

Applicants must:

• Have submitted their FAFSA before starting work
• Complete CITI Certification within the first week of the assistantship
• Be enrolled in or have completed MPC 6010

🌟 Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of MPC 6700/6710 is a plus
• Strong interest in research, journalism, and diversity in media

💬 How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare the following documents:

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter (under 500 words) — explaining why you’re interested in this project
3. Academic Writing Sample (under 500 words)

Send all application materials to Dr. Jean Norman at 📧 jeannorman@weber.edu.

🌈 Equal Opportunity Commitment

Weber State University is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse academic environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any protected category under federal and state law.

🔍 Why Apply?

Joining Weber State University as a Graduate Research Assistant means more than a paycheck — it’s a chance to grow academically, contribute to meaningful research, and be part of a forward-thinking university community that values equity, innovation, and excellence.

📅 Important Dates

• Job Open Date: August 4, 2025
• Application Review Begins: August 6, 2025
• Closing Date: November 15, 2025

Don’t miss this amazing chance to gain paid research experience while advancing your graduate studies.

👉 Apply now: https://jobs.weber.edu/postings/21731