Graduate Assistant, CSC Public Interest Technology Initiatives at Barnard College — New York City, NY

Job:

Graduate Assistant, CSC Public Interest Technology Initiatives

Barnard’s Vagelos Computational Science Center (CSC) is seeking a motivated and independent graduate assistant for their Public Interest Technology (PIT) Initiatives.

Public Interest Technology encompasses the study and application of technology to advance public interest, with an emphasis on key areas such as healthcare, education, housing, and environmental justice. This interdisciplinary field aims to promote justice, dignity and autonomy, particularly for communities that are disproportionately affected by the negative impacts of technology.

Barnard College’s Public Interest Technology (PIT) membership launches in January 2025, enabling the CSC, as the host of the initiative, to network nationally with colleges and universities dedicated to building the field of public interest technology. This essential role will collaborate with CSC staff to unify various programs and events at the College under the public interest technology umbrella to enhance awareness across campus about how technology and computing can serve the public good. The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in the civic development and use of technology, strong research and communication skills, will take initiative, and be highly organized.

To apply, please submit a CV and Cover Letter as a single PDF file.

Job Description

Public Interest Technology (PIT) encompasses the study and application of technology to advance public interest, with an emphasis on key areas such as healthcare, education, housing, and environmental justice. This interdisciplinary field aims to promote justice, dignity and autonomy, particularly for communities that are disproportionately affected by the negative impacts of technology.

Barnard College’s Public Interest Technology (PIT) membership launched in the summer of 2025, enabling the CSC, as the host of the initiative, to network nationally with colleges and universities dedicated to building the field of public interest technology. This essential role will collaborate with CSC staff to unify various programs and events at the College under the public interest technology umbrella to enhance awareness across campus about how technology and computing can serve the public good. The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in the civic development and use of technology, strong research and communication skills, will take initiative, and be highly organized.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Engage in background research in the field of public interest technology, relevant PIT University Network field building areas, and regional and network activities
• Conduct outreach to faculty, students, and stakeholders to gather information about their work related to public interest technology
• Compile and organize a list of contacts to establish a community of individuals interested in public interest technology at Barnard (and beyond)
• Assist in planning and organizing events, workshops, and seminars that promote public interest technology
• Research trends and developments in public interest technology to support the initiative’s mission
• Collaborate with CSC team members to create promotional materials and communications to raise awareness of the initiative
• Support administrative tasks relating to the initiative, including scheduling meetings and maintaining records
• Additional tasks as assigned

Skills, Qualifications & Requirements:

Knowledge, skills:

• Background in technology and public interest
• Excellent research skills and ability to synthesize information
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective outreach and collaboration

Position Requirements:

• This position requires in-person presence for meetings and events as needed
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organization skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of and willingness to learn and use research, design, and communication platforms

To Qualify:

Must be currently enrolled in a graduate-level program in education, computer science, or related fields.

Pay Rate: $33/hour

Company:

Barnard College

Time Type:

Part time