FWS Fall 2026, Educational Leadership Studies Undergraduate Research Assistant: Exploring the Power of Community Education

Department: Federal Work Study
Location: 251 Scott St, Lexington, KY 40503
Pay: $15.00/hour
Position type: Part-time student position

About the role

As an undergraduate researcher, you will engage in a variety of research projects alongside Dr. Virginia Downing’s work, which centers on the role of historically underrepresented community-based actors in community organizations. You will contribute to one or more of the following research strands:

• Exploring the Impact of 40 Years of Community-Based Organization
  • Organize archival documents from community-based programs over the past 40 years
  • Research how to create an archive within community-based contexts
  • Conduct focus groups with youth in the program
  • Analyze data
• The Use of Documentary Film to Spark Civic Engagement
  • Review literature on the impact of documentary film on civic engagement
  • Conduct focus groups with local community members
  • Analyze data
• Understanding Youth’s Perspectives on Civic Engagement
  • Support research project development about a youth program at Tates Creek Middle School
  • Review literature on civic engagement efficacy for youth and place-based education
  • Assist in designing data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, focus groups)

This position will help you develop research skills across the entire research process, with opportunities to write and present findings.

Requirements

• Self-starter
• Detail-oriented
• Interest in research within community-based spaces
• Strong communication skills

Application Process

• Submit a resume, responses to essay questions, and one reference
• Essay questions:
  • Describe why you are interested in this position and what you hope to gain as a WRAP Researcher
  • Describe any experience you have working with or participating in community-based organizations
• Participate in a 30-minute interview

Schedule

Hours will align with the undergraduate researcher’s weekly availability.