Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is offering one two-year research fellowship (tuition waiver, yearly stipend of $26,000, and health insurance) and one scholarship (tuition waiver for the 1st year, 2nd year contingent on academic performance and funding availability) in its new Consumer Behavior and Decision Sciences Master of Science program starting in fall 2020. The program is designed for students with a background in the social sciences, business, and/or a quantitative field, seeking to master applied behavioral and consumer research methodologies and analytic techniques. Students learn to synthesize theory in order to perform applied behavioral research, evaluate data to uncover actionable insights, and leverage those insights to shape behavior in the real world. The program fosters innovation, focusing on emergent and advanced research methodologies and analytic techniques, providing graduates the skills necessary to stay competitive now and into the future. Through an applied research project in connection with industry, the public sector, or community organizations, students produce solid evidence of their ability to conduct transformative research, setting them apart from their peers as they enter the job market.
The research fellow will serve as the lab manager for Harrisburg University’s Consumer Insights Research Lab (CIRL), while the scholarship recipient will act as a part-time research assistant. CIRL’s mission is to deliver a superior experiential learning opportunity to students while meeting local industry and public sector need for applied behavioral and consumer research. Award recipients will be immersed in every aspect of CIRL’s operations, gaining unique experience in organizing and carrying out a variety of applied behavioral research projects for our industry and public sector partners.
Ideal candidates will be creative problem solvers, possess solid quantitative research skills (e.g., familiarity with research design, basic statistics, and experimental programming), and have a strong interest in using applied behavioral research to influence the world around them. To apply send an application packet containing a personal statement (two-pages maximum) summarizing your relevant experience and interest in applied behavioral and consumer research, your resume/cv, a copy of your transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this stage), and one letter of recommendation (referees can send letters directly if they prefer) by April 1st 2020 to nashby@harrisburgu.edu with “CIRL Research Fellowship” in the subject line. Candidates will be considered for both awards. Candidates must hold a BS/BA by July 1st, 2020 and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
