Alcohol & Other Drugs Research Assistant (Student)

The American University Alcohol & Other Drugs (AOD) Internship is designed to create practical experiences that relate to departmental needs and are closely aligned with students’ abilities, professional goals, and areas of interest.

The AU AOD Internship enhances the educational aspects of the career development process; offers a system of accountability; and encourages professionalism. The program also provides an opportunity for students to develop positive work habits to test their aptitude for, or interest in a selected field. Interns will be able to apply previous coursework in a real-world working setting while also learning new skills.

Essential Functions:

1.) Outreach and Event Planning

• Help plan educational workshops, lectures, and awareness campaigns in collaboration with faculty, campus organizations, and local partners.

• Support Center for Well-Being staff with events (e.g., tabling, trainings, etc.).

• Promote events through social media, campus communications, and outreach to student groups.

2.) Data Analysis

• Collaborate with the AOD Prevention Specialist to analyze survey data and generate meaningful reports.

• Assist with the interpretation of results and help identify trends, challenges, and areas for future intervention.

• Provide regular updates on data findings and support the development of data-driven strategies.

3.) Research and Resource Development

• Support the development of educational materials on drug and drugged driving prevention.

• Stay updated on best practices, emerging research, and public health initiatives related to substance use disorders (SUD) and impaired driving.

4.) Continuing Education

• Participate in monthly trainings related to alcohol or drug education, treatment, or support.

• Draft reports detailing the information from the monthly trainings.

5.) Additional Administrative Support

• Provide general support for outreach events, including setup, communication, and follow-up tasks.

• Maintain organized records of activities, contacts, and resources used in outreach efforts.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• Part-time.

• 10 hours per week.

Salary Range:

• $17.95 per hour.

Required Education & Experience:

• Currently enrolled as a student at American University in Public Health, Health Promotion, Psychology, or similar subject.

• Strong interest in public health, mental health, and/or substance use disorders.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to engage with diverse campus populations.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and following ethical research standards.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Experience with data collection and analysis (e.g., surveys, spreadsheets, statistical software).

• Prior experience in event planning, outreach, or community engagement is a plus.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

• This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.