Research Assistant

The College of Veterinary Medicine at The Ohio State University is seeking applications for two Research Assistants. The candidates will work alongside Dr. Arruda to support field studies on infectious disease epidemiology. This role involves frequent travel to livestock markets across Ohio and other U.S. States to conduct on-site data collection and stakeholder engagement. Specifically, this research assistant will work on a USDA-funded project Market Matters, which aims to enhance biosecurity in livestock markets. Responsibilities include assisting with survey development and survey deployment, entering data on Excel spreadsheets, conducting basic data analysis, communicating with stakeholders and other students/collaborators, participating in meetings, and helping with preparation of reports and dissemination materials as needed.

Essential functions to be performed by the candidate include:

• Assist with development and refinement of survey instruments
• Conduct in-person data collection at livestock markets, including administering surveys and documenting observations
• Support data collection via online, mail and phone methods as needed
• Help coordinate logistics for livestock market visits and stakeholder meetings across multiples states
• Enter and manage data using Excel and other software (e.g., R, Stata)
• Assist with basic data analysis and visualization
• Support preparation of reports, presentations, and printed materials
• Participate in outreach and dissemination activities

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a national biosecurity initiative with direct impact on livestock market preparedness. The student will gain experience in applied epidemiology, stakeholder engagement, and research translation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree or current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program.
• Experience with Excel and basic data analysis.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently (including overnights) for fieldwork.
• Comfort working in agricultural/livestock environments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desired Qualifications:

• Familiarity with livestock industry or veterinary public health.
• Experience with survey design or stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with the development of outreach materials.

Working Conditions:

• Frequent travel required to livestock markets across Ohio and other U.S. states (including overnight travel).
• Work conducted in livestock market environments (exposure to animals, dust, noise, and outdoor conditions).
• Candidate should possess a valid Drivers License at time of hire.
• Occasional weekend or early morning/evening work aligned with market schedules.