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Position Summary

Course Overview

This upper-level group project course immerses students in the full research process—from project design to client presentation—over the course of the semester. Students work in teams of 4–5 to design and execute research projects for real clients, developing skills in problem definition, research design, data collection, analysis, and presentation.

The first half of the semester emphasizes lectures, foundational assignments, and guided instruction on research design and methodology. The second half centers on applied teamwork and project execution, with class sessions used for team breakout work, proposal development, instrument design (e.g., moderator guides, questionnaires), data analysis, and preparation for the final client presentations.

Position Summary

The Assistant Instructor will work closely with the lead course instructor to support the delivery and management of this experiential learning course. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the execution of real-world research methods (qualitative and quantitative), experience mentoring others, and the ability to provide practical, constructive feedback on applied research work.

Key Responsibilities

Team Mentorship:

o Serve as a mentor and advisor for approximately four student project teams (half of the class).

o Guide teams through each stage of their research projects—from defining client objectives to preparing final client presentations.

o Provide feedback and troubleshooting support during project milestones and breakout sessions.

Instructional Support:

o Assist in delivering virtual lectures and discussions during the first half of the semester as needed.

o Contribute to in-person sessions as needed (two scheduled).

o Lead select virtual sessions or breakout discussions on relevant research topics or techniques.

Assessment and Feedback:

o Review and provide detailed feedback on key student assignments such as research proposals, moderator guides, questionnaires, analysis summaries, and presentation drafts.

o Evaluate student progress and contribute to grading and assessment in collaboration with the lead instructor.

Course Coordination:

o Support communication and coordination among teams, clients, and the lead instructor.

o Help maintain consistency and quality across projects and deliverables.

o Participate in end-of-semester client presentation sessions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Bachelors -Marketing, Business, Communication, Marketing Research, Psychology, or a related field

Desired Degree

Masters -Marketing, Business, Communication, Marketing Research, Psychology, or a related field

Minimum Requirements

Required:

o Bachelor’s in Marketing, Business, Communication, Marketing Research, Psychology, or a related field.

o At least 15 years demonstrated expertise in research methodology, including survey design, qualitative interviewing, and/or data analysis.

o Leadership experience in marketing research design and execution ideally with a focus on qualitative or quantitative research.

o Strong interpersonal and organizational skills; ability to work collaboratively in a teaching team.

Desired Qualifications

Preferred:

o Master’s preferred in Marketing, Business, Communication, Marketing Research, Psychology, or a related field

o Professional experience in market research or applied consulting.

o Experience mentoring or teaching undergraduate or graduate students

o Experience managing client-based or project-based learning courses.

o Familiarity with online/hybrid teaching environments.

Required Application Materials

+ CV

+ Cover Letter

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

https://broad.msu.edu/marketing/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.