Research Associate - Limited Term

About the University of Georgia

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and the state’s flagship university. UGA is ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The main campus is in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff, with enrollment exceeding 41,000 students.

About the College of Veterinary Medicine

Founded in 1946, the College of Veterinary Medicine trains future veterinarians, provides services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducts investigations to improve animal and human health. The college offers high-quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services for pets, food-producing animals, and wildlife, and studies emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.

Position Summary

The part-time Research Associate supports a newly funded research study pairing foster cats from shelters with older adults aged 60 or older. Responsibilities include conducting monthly home visits to deliver supplies, check on cat well-being, address participant concerns, and collect data at scheduled times. The position is in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, reports to the Principal Investigator, and is grant‑funded with a limited‑term appointment expected to end July 31, 2028, subject to extension based on continued funding.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Work closely with participants and cats enrolled in the study.
• Conduct regular home visits to deliver supplies for the cats, check on their well‑being, and address any participant concerns (≈80% of time).
• Collect data from participants at scheduled times throughout the study; some evening and weekend work may be required (≈20% of time).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of feline behavior and handling techniques; ability to safely work with cats while minimizing stress and promoting welfare.
• Ability to observe and assess cat behavior, recognize signs of distress, and respond appropriately.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including active listening and clear information conveyance.
• Ability to accurately collect, record, and maintain research data per established protocols.
• Strong problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills; ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and implement effective solutions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research or animal‑care environment with attention to detail, accuracy, and professionalism.

Physical Demands

Ability to lift at least 15 lbs.

Pay

Advertised salary: $30.00 per hour.

Schedule

Part‑time position (0.375 FTE) working less than 15 hours per week. Some evening and weekend work may be required for data collection.