Research Assistant -Longitudinal Psychology Study

Position Overview The Research Assistant will play a key role in implementing a longitudinal, multi-site study in Child Care Institutions (CCIs) in Gujarat. The position involves both field-based and analytical work, including inter-state travel, participant recruitment, data collection, coordination with institutions, data entry, and statistical analysis. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in advanced quantitative skills, sensitivity in working with vulnerable children and strong organizational skills.

Key Responsibilities Fieldwork & Data Collection Coordinate with CCIs, institutional heads, and staff to schedule and conduct research activities. Assist in administering structured assessment tools. Conduct interviews and behavioral observations of children, ensuring adherence to ethical and child protection protocols. Maintain accurate field notes, consent forms, and data logs. Organize and facilitate engagement workshops and rapport-building sessions with participating children as part of the retention strategy. Data Management & Analysis Enter, clean, and manage large-scale longitudinal datasets using software such as R or Python. Assist in coding and scoring psychological instruments and questionnaires. Support statistical modeling and trajectory analyses under the supervision of the investigators. Contribute to periodic progress reports, data summaries, and research briefs.

Key Skills and Competencies:

Technical and Analytical Skills Strong background in psychology, social sciences, or public health research. Working knowledge of statistical software (R, or Python). Familiarity with psychometric assessments, behavioral data, and longitudinal designs preferred. Field and Interpersonal Skills Demonstrated sensitivity and ethical conduct in working with children and vulnerable populations. Excellent communication skills in English, Hindi, and Gujarati (preferred). Ability to travel independently to multiple sites within Gujarat. Strong organizational and record-keeping abilities. Professional Attributes Commitment to high research ethics and confidentiality. Dependable, proactive, and able to work both independently and collaboratively. Ability to multitask and meet deadlines in a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications Master’s degree in

Psychology ,

Social Work ,

Public Health , or a related discipline. Prior research experience involving fieldwork and data collection with child/adolescent populations is desirable. Experience with quantitative data analysis and familiarity with psychometric tools will be an advantage

Duration:

Two and a half years (with possibility of extension based on project needs). Salary:

Competitive compensation based on experience. Ideal Start Date:

December 15, 2025.

Application Process Interested candidates should submit: A detailed

CV

outlining relevant research experience. A

cover letter

describing interest in the project and relevant skills. Contact details of one

academic/professional reference . Applications should be sent to

rachna.mishra@ahduni.edu.in

with the subject line:

“Application for Research Assistant – Longitudinal Trajectories Project” .