Volunteer Research Assistant in LGBTQ Mental Health Research

This position will support the QUEST Study (Queer Experiences of Stress, Strength, and Transformation), a research project that investigates sexual orientation identity development among LGBTQ+ youth (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual minority identities) and the potential relationships between sexual minority identity development and mental health disparities, including depression and suicidality. You can learn more about the Quest Study at https://quest.unc.edu/.

We are looking for a volunteer research assistant (RA) to join our team. RAs on our team get involved in different aspects of the research, which can include conducting literature searches, reading and summarizing the literature on a topic, recruiting participants, collecting data, data entry, analyzing data, interpreting results, and preparing reports of findings. Right now, we primarily need help with conducting and transcribing interviews. Training for research tasks will be provided. Our team typically meets weekly or biweekly, depending on how much is going on with our projects.

Unfortunately, we do not have funds to pay RAs, but students find the experience worthwhile because this experience can help them learn new knowledge and skills, gain experience for their resume, and prepare them for a graduate program. Some of our undergrad RAs have also gotten course credit for their work with us. We ask that RAs devote at least 5 hours per week to our research and commit to be involved for at least two semesters (summers are optional). If you may not be able to fulfill this time commitment, please do not apply. If you are interested in joining our team as a volunteer RA, please email Magdelene Ramon (magdelene_ramon@unc.edu), Project Manager, your resume and a cover letter outlining why you are interested in this work, any research experience or skills, other relevant experience, and relevant coursework.