Research Assistant, City Initiatives

Position Information

Position Information

Position Availability: Position Title: Research Assistant, City Initiatives Requisition Number: 0406073790 Location New York City Position Type: Student Department: CA/President's Office Responsibilities:

At The New School, we redefine the boundaries of education, creativity, and innovation. Founded in 1919 and located in the heart of New York City, we are home to over 9,000 students from over 100 countries, offering more than 135 degree and diploma programs across our renowned colleges, including Parsons School of Design, The New School for Social Research, Eugene Lang college of Liberal Arts, Parsons Paris, and the College of Performing Arts. Our progressive, interdisciplinary approach has earned us recognition as one of the most forward-thinking institutions in the world.

The Office of University Initiatives at The New School is engaged in research and programming across four thematic areas: City Initiatives, Climate and Environmental Justice, Democracy and Culture, and Technology. The office works to advance interdisciplinary projects, develop innovative approaches to pressing societal issues, and support faculty, staff, and student engagement within and across these global themes.

POSITION/ROLE OVERVIEW

We are seeking a Research Assistant to support our ongoing initiatives, with particular emphasis on the City Initiatives theme (and to support Dr Lara de S. Penin as Vice President of Cities Initiatives and Bhawani Venkarataman, Vice President of Climate and Environmental Justice). This position will involve a combination of research and research-based administrative support to advance the office's work.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between SENS-UAW and the New School. More information about this agreement and SENS-UAW may be found on the University's Labor Relations website: https://www.newschool.edu/human-resources/academic-student-workers/.

CORE CAPABILITIES AND PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Identify, access, and compile relevant data, information, and metrics to support projects
• Conduct targeted literature reviews across cities-related themes
• Collect, organize, and maintain datasets aligned with project goals
• Draft concise summaries, reports, and briefing materials for internal and external use
• Assist in coordinating meetings, events, and communications tied to ongoing research projects
• Communicate with stakeholders when necessary to ensure smooth project operations
• Support the development of Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 convenings and programming, including helping shape thematic agendas and identifying/outreaching to guests and potential partners.

WORK MODE

This position is primarily in-person and is based on campus to support effective in-person collaboration and engagement.

Hybrid work arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the nature of the role and operational needs. Any such arrangement must be discussed and approved in advance by the appropriate division lead or their designee.

SALARY

$31.37 per hour

WHY JOIN US?

This is an extraordinary opportunity to work closely with a visionary leader and contribute meaningfully to a forward-thinking institution that's reshaping the future of higher education. You'll be at the nexus of strategy, operations, and innovation in a role that grows with your impact.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Minimum Qualifications:

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum qualifications include, but are not limited to:

• Currently enrolled as a student at The New School
• Master's degree or equivalent
• Demonstrated research experience, including literature reviews and data collection/organization
• Strong administrative skills and prior experience supporting academic or research initiatives
• Familiarity with online management tools and technical proficiency
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced higher education setting
• Demonstrated ability to work in culturally diverse and international contexts

Preferred Qualifications:

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred qualifications include, but are not limited to:

• PhD student
• Prior experience with administrative and expense management processes at The New School
• Experience preparing professional reports or briefing materials for institutional use
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects on overlapping timelines

Job Family: Office of the President Posting Date: 05/27/2026 Closing Date: Open Until Filled No

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Optional & Required Applicant Documents:

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents