How to Apply:
You should submit a resume and a brief writing sample or project portfolio. Rather than a traditional cover letter, please submit a 300-word response explaining: What unique perspective or approach would you bring to our team, and describe a specific example of how you have previously elevated team performance or culture.

Submit application materials to social-innovations-Apply@umich.edu with email subject starting with [Timebank RA]. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Questions can be directed to social-innovations-Apply@umich.edu.

Job Summary:
The Social Innovation Group (SIG) is looking for undergraduate and graduate Research Assistants to support the project Investigating Gendered Dynamics in Timebank Exchanges, supervised by Dr. Yao Lyu. This mixed-methods project examines whether alternative economies like Timebanks—systems where community members exchange services based on the principle that all hours are equal—may unintentionally reproduce gendered inequities. Our study explores gendered imbalances in task valuation, drawing on surveys, service exchange history, and interviews. Findings will inform design and policy possible effects for gender-equitable technology and community practices.

Responsibilities:
You will work both independently and collaboratively with faculty and a postdoctoral researcher. You will be involved in mixed-methods research activities, which may include:

• Quantitative study tasks: analyzing survey or transaction history data using quantitative tools such as SPSS, R, or Python.
• Qualitative study tasks: conducting semi-structured interviews, qualitative coding, and thematic analysis of interview data.
• Review and summarize relevant literature on Timebanks, gender, and alternative economies.
• Help with data management, organization, and documentation.
• Help prepare research outputs, including academic publications and presentations.
• Contribute to the distribution of findings to academic and community audiences.

Other responsibilities may be delegated based on the RA's interests and skillset.

Required Qualifications:

• 1+ years experience with quantitative analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, Python).
• 1+ years experience in qualitative methods (e.g., interviews, thematic analysis).
• 1+ years experience identifying tasks when working under uncertainty.
• Teamwork skills such as the ability to collaborate with faculty, peers, and community partners.