UX Research Assistant (temporary)

Sago is a global leader in market research and data solutions, committed to connecting human answers to business questions. We're a team of innovators, strategists, and problem-solvers who celebrate wins and empower colleagues to innovate in the market research industry.

About the role

The UX Research Assistant is a core member of the Research Support Team, supporting high-quality human participant research studies. This temporary position is anticipated to last three (3) months, with the possibility for extension. The role involves coordinating participant activities, preparing study environments, operating research equipment, collecting and validating study data, and ensuring study procedures are executed accurately.

Responsibilities

• Study Execution & Participant Experience
  • Execute human participant research studies in accordance with approved protocols and operational expectations.
  • Prepare study environments, equipment, documentation, and participant materials.
  • Support participant onboarding, check-in, and study activities while creating a positive experience.
  • Monitor study sessions and document observations, progress, issues, and protocol deviations.
  • Maintain accurate study records and assist with issue resolution.
• Data Collection & Quality Management
  • Collect, validate, and organize research data, including biometric or other study-specific data.
  • Execute data collection protocols accurately and ensure outputs are complete and organized.
  • Perform quality checks to support data integrity, accuracy, and completeness.
  • Assist with data preparation, formatting, documentation, and research summaries.
  • Identify potential inconsistencies or issues that may affect data quality.
• Lab Operations & Technical Support
  • Set up, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot research equipment, lab tools, and software platforms.
  • Ensure laboratory spaces, testing rooms, and materials are clean, organized, and operational.
  • Support inventory management and equipment tracking for study-specific tools.
  • Follow safety procedures, privacy expectations, and operational standards.
  • Build knowledge of research tools and emerging technologies used across programs.
• Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
  • Share best practices and operational observations to improve study execution.
  • Demonstrate flexibility as research priorities, protocols, and timelines evolve.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Psychology, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Data Science, or a related discipline preferred. Equivalent hands-on research or lab experience may be considered.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
• Curiosity and comfort working with emerging technology and human participant research.
• Ability to follow complex protocols accurately and consistently.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Professional, participant-centered approach with strong service orientation.
• Ability to remain composed and solutions-focused in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Reliable, organized, proactive, and able to manage multiple study activities.

Preferred Experience

• Experience supporting human participant research, UX research, clinical studies, or lab operations.
• Experience coordinating participants, preparing study materials, or supporting recruitment.
• Exposure to biomechanical, physiological, behavioral, or sensor-based data collection.
• Experience in laboratory, research, academic, or fast-paced operational environments.
• Interest in emerging technologies such as AR/VR, AI, wearable technology, or HCI.

Skills

• Microsoft Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook.
• Google Docs, Sheets, Calendar, and related collaboration tools.
• Research equipment, lab software, testing platforms, and participant tracking tools.
• Ability to quickly learn new research platforms and technical workflows.

Pay

Hourly rate is anticipated to be $35/hour, dependent on candidate experience and qualifications.

Schedule

Friday through Monday (daytime hours). Full-time and part-time schedules available.

Location: Onsite within proximity to Penn Station, NYC.