START is a research center housed within the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at the University of Maryland. START is committed to advancing understanding of the human causes and consequences of terrorism in the United States and around the world. To achieve this goal, START supports a range of ongoing projects involving teams of researchers (ranging from senior faculty to undergraduate students).
For the upcoming academic year, START has a number of research opportunities available for University of Maryland undergraduate students. As described below, there are currently two paid positions available for students. In addition, there are a range of opportunities available for which students can earn academic credit. These academic internship opportunities, and specific application processes, are described on the Internships page.
Paid Research Assistantships Project: Content Analysis of the Language of Extremist Groups One to two students are needed to analyze the content of documents and materials of extremist groups around the world. No experience in content analysis is necessary, as students will participate in a thorough training program, and all materials are in English. Qualified applicants will:
- Have a strong academic record
- Be organized, detail-oriented, and responsible
- Have experience working independently
- Be able to work 10-20 hours per week for the full 2008-09 academic year (September thru May) and be available for training during September; work hours are flexible
Salary: $12/hour Qualified applicants should send a cover letter and resume to infostart@start.umd.edu, with subject line "Content Analysis research position". Be sure to include in this information your current GPA and information on courses you have taken. Application materials should be submitted by Monday, September 8.
Project: Terrorism and Preparedness Data Resources Center (TPDRC) One to two students are needed to prepare and assemble data related to terrorism and preparedness for a data archive being constructed by START. Experiencing working with Excel is required for this position, and experience working with statistical software (such as SPSS, SAS, or STATA) is preferred. Qualified applicants will:
- Have a strong academic record
- Be organized, detail-oriented, and responsible
- Have good writing skills (especially an ability to write succinct summaries)
- Be able to work 10 hours per week for Fall 2008 (extension through Spring is possible); work hours are flexible
Salary$9/hour Qualified applicants should send a cover letter and resume to infostart@start.umd.edu, with subject line "TPDRC research position". Be sure to include in this information your current GPA and information on courses you have taken. Application materials should be submitted by Monday, September 8.