RESEARCH DATA TECH II, Sanford School of Public Policy

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Research Data Assistant

Center for Child and Family Policy
Duke University
July 2026

About the Center for Child and Family Policy

The mission of the Center for Child and Family Policy is to contribute to solutions to important problems affecting today's children and families through an integrated system of scientific research, debate and dissemination, public service, and teaching. The Center emphasizes the bridge from basic research to policy and practice.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As a Research Data Assistant, you will play an important role in research initiatives focused on understanding and improving outcomes for children and families. You will work alongside researchers, project managers, and study participants to collect, manage, and document critical research data while supporting projects that inform policy and practice.

Your attention to detail, strong communication skills, and commitment to research excellence will help advance meaningful work that impacts communities across North Carolina and beyond.

Be Bold.

Join a team dedicated to conducting high-quality research that addresses real-world challenges affecting children, families, and communities. In this role, you will support participant recruitment, data collection, data management, and reporting activities for multiple research studies, including the Helene Impact Project and Intergenerational Project.

What You'll Do

Data Collection & Participant Assessment (40%)

• Conduct data collection using paper surveys, online instruments, telephone interviews, and observational methods.
• Contact and recruit study participants for the Helene Impact Project by updating contact information, describing project objectives, obtaining participant consent, and distributing digital surveys.
• Maintain participant records and update digital tracking systems for the Helene Impact Project, Intergenerational Project, and other assigned projects.

Data Entry, Coding & Management (25%)

• Code, enter, and verify research data for computer processing using established procedures.
• Maintain organized and accurate records, files, and tracking notes, including current and historical participant contact information.
• Create summaries, tables, charts, and visual representations of collected data as needed.

Participant Recruitment & Retention (20%)

• Utilize search tools, records, and outreach methods to locate and recruit participants for longitudinal follow-up studies and the Helene Impact Project.
• Communicate with participants to schedule appointments and support ongoing engagement with research activities.

Reporting & Documentation (10%)

• Assist in preparing progress reports, data summaries, and documentation outlining findings, trends, and recommendations.
• Ensure research documentation is complete, accurate, and aligned with study protocols and guidelines.

Process Improvement & Training Support (5%)

• Recommend enhancements to data collection and documentation processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Assist with training staff on updated procedures and revised research protocols.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

What You'll Bring

Education

Bachelor's degree in a field related to the specific position.

Experience

• Prior experience using a variety of survey and interview assessment methods preferred.
• Prior experience working with research participants and the public preferred.

OR

An equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• General data collection and research support skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively via telephone, email, and in-person interactions.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and handle confidential information appropriately.

Choose Duke.

At Duke University, we are committed to creating an environment where all individuals can thrive. Duke offers the opportunity to work alongside world-class researchers while contributing to meaningful projects that improve the lives of children and families.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas and experiences that strengthen our research, teaching, and service missions.

Why Duke?

• Meaningful work that impacts children, families, and communities.
• Collaborative and mission-driven research environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Association with one of the nation's leading research universities.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help advance research that supports stronger families, healthier communities, and better outcomes for future generations.