University of Minnesota Institute for Social Research & Data Innovation

The Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation (ISRDI) is an interdisciplinary research institute that provides the infrastructure and services to support the work of its four centers: IPUMS, the Minnesota Population Center, the Life Course Center, and the Minnesota Research Data Center.

Summer Research Fellowship

The Summer Fellowship at the Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation at the University of Minnesota is designed to help recruit undergraduate and graduate students to work with Minnesota Population Center or Life Course Center member faculty and staff on demographic research projects or IPUMS data infrastructure projects.

Projects with Openings

• Developing AI for Multicultural Cancer Education (Dr. David Haynes)
• International Health in Context (Dr. Tracy Kugler & Dr. Kathryn Grace)
• Building a Homeless Mortality Predictor Database (Dr. Katie Berry and David Van Riper)
• Building and Assessing 2020 Census Data for Optimized Block Groups (Dr. Jonathan Schroeder and Dr. Steve Manson)

Dates

• Graduate Fellows: May 25, 2026 – August 30, 2026
• Undergraduate Fellows: June 1, 2026 – August 21, 2026

Responsibilities

Fellows will work extensively with data of various types, including historical census and survey data from the U.S. as well as spatial data. They may interpret, edit, and format technical documentation. They also may analyze data in statistical packages and record the findings systematically. Some fellows help to prepare data for distribution through IPUMS' data dissemination websites. Fellows are expected to carry out a variety of other tasks including data preparation, data dissemination, and data analysis. Fellows will be expected to be trained in new software and techniques as necessary, perform work in a timely manner while being attentive to details, and show initiative in solving problems.

Pay

• Undergraduate Fellows: $16.51/hr — 12 weeks, 20 hours per week
• Graduate Fellows: $28.97/hr — 14 weeks, 20 hours per week

Work Location

This fellowship is available for hybrid or fully on-site work arrangements only, with a requirement for in-person participation in cohort meetings and workshops. ISRDI is located at 50 Willey Hall in Minneapolis, MN.

Eligibility Requirements

• Students must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program.
• Students must be authorized to work in the US
• Students must be able to work on-site during the fellowship on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.
• The program does not provide any funds for relocation or living expenses.

Required Qualifications

• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent computer skills and ability to work in a technical environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated reliability and attention to detail
• Ability to act independently and as part of a diverse team
• Must be willing to embrace new technologies and skills
• Demonstrated commitment to community engagement and ability to attend in-person weekly cohort meetings at Willey Hall

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of a major statistical package (Stata, SAS, R, or SPSS)
• Experience analyzing census or survey microdata
• Experience with HTML and XML metadata, and/or use and knowledge of ArcGIS or other GIS software packages
• We are especially eager to recruit students who are interested in learning new skills and who could use MPC or LCC resources and/or IPUMS data in their own research.

About the Department

The Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation (ISRDI) is an interdisciplinary research institute that provides the infrastructure and services to support the work of its four centers: IPUMS, the Minnesota Population Center, the Life Course Center, and the Minnesota Research Data Center. The work of the Institute and its centers advances our knowledge of societies and populations across time and space, including economic and demographic behavior, health, well-being, and human-environment interactions.

Pay and Benefits

• Undergraduate Fellows: $16.51/hr — 12 weeks, 20 hours per week
• Graduate Fellows: $28.97/hr — 14 weeks, 20 hours per week; depending on education/qualifications/experience
• Student workers are eligible to participate in the Student Health Benefit Plan, if they maintain 6 or more eligible course credits within a given semester.

Application Deadline

APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

Application Questions

1. How did you learn about the summer fellowship program?
2. In-person participation is required for this fellowship, including weekly cohort meetings at 50 Willey Hall in Minneapolis from May/June to August.
3. Please specify the project you are applying for and explain why you are interested in the project.
4. Describe how you meet the required and, if applicable, the preferred qualifications for the project(s) you are applying for.
5. How have your identities and lived experiences influenced your academic interests?
6. Community building is an important component of the summer fellowship. Summer Fellows will attend weekly cohort meetings, professional development events featuring experts in their fields, and various networking events, all with their cohort. How have you engaged in your various communities?

North Dakota State University

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Overview:

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public, land-grant, research university located in Fargo, North Dakota. It is a top-ranked R1 institution, known for its commitment to student-focused learning and its dedication to research. NDSU provides affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Admission:

NDSU provides comprehensive admission services, including application assistance, financial aid information, and campus visits.

Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Campus Life:

NDSU provides a vibrant campus life with various co-curricular activities, dining services, residence life options, and athletic events.

Student Support:

NDSU offers support services such as career advising, counseling, and wellness resources.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU provides ample research opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Online Programs:

NDSU offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various co-curricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university also provides a variety of dining options, residence halls, and recreational facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

NDSU offers an excellent education at an affordable price.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Hands-on Learning:

NDSU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.

Strong Faculty:

NDSU has a strong faculty committed to teaching and mentoring students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Agriculture and Biological Systems:

NDSU is a leading institution in agriculture and biological systems, with strong programs in areas such as animal science, plant science, and biotechnology.

Engineering and Architecture:

NDSU offers a variety of engineering and architecture programs, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.

Health Sciences:

NDSU has a strong presence in health sciences, with programs in areas such as nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

NDSU offers a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including English, history, and political science.

Business and Economics:

NDSU has a strong business and economics program, with programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

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Other:

NDSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.