Debate Researcher
University of Michigan · Ann Arbor, MI · 1 mo ago
Part-time
About the role
The University of Michigan Debate Program seeks a motivated, student-centered, and team-oriented individual for a debate researcher position. The role involves approximately 20-30 hours/week of debate research focusing on the 2026-2027 collegiate policy topic, which centers on restricting United States arms sales to foreign countries. Responsibilities include assisting the debate team's research efforts, scouting intercollegiate debate opponent research efforts, and participating in team meetings.
Responsibilities
- U-M Debate Team Research and Synthesis - 80%
- Assist the debate team's research efforts, which involves planning assignments, original research, editing files, and producing substantial evidence for intercollegiate debate tournaments.
- Work with and teach students how to retrieve and synthesize research that you produced.
- Determine debate team argument selection and research prioritization.
- U-M Debate Team Research Scouting - 10%
- Observe and scout the debate research methods and argument content of potential intercollegiate opponents.
- Prepare and anticipate the future research trends and directions of likely potential debate opponents.
- U-M Debate Team Research and Strategy Meetings - 10%
- Participate in weekly team meetings discussing debate research priorities and assignments.
- Advise U-M Debate coaches and debaters on emerging trends and developments surrounding the 2026-2027 intercollegiate "arms sales" topic.
Required Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree is required, along with evidence of at least four years of intercollegiate debate experience and research.
- The ability to work independently and make sound educational, ethical, and appropriate decisions.
- Strong organizational skills.
- An understanding of the educational and developmental purposes of intercollegiate debate.
Desired Qualifications
- Previous experience working inside a large and complex institution.
- An extensive knowledge of debate theories, concepts, and best practices.
- Experience in fostering and promoting a positive team culture and successful debate team atmosphere and partnerships.
- Advanced experience with research and formatting tools such as Microsoft Word and Verbatim.