Research Intern

About the Job

The Teens, Technology, and Families Lab (PI: Dr. Xiaoran Sun) is excited to offer a summer internship opportunity for youth (ages 16‑21) in collaboration with the Department of Family Social Science. The anticipated start date is June 22nd, 2026, with flexibility. This position is part of the Teen and AI Study, where we explore how teens (13‑17 years) use AI apps and chatbots in their daily lives.

The intern will support the research team in activities such as reviewing interview responses, helping organize data, and contributing to discussions about the findings. The internship is designed to be hands‑on and supportive; you will receive training from the research team and gain experience in how studies are conducted.

• Data Preparation (45%)
  • Review and transcribe interview responses
  • Assist with data organization
  • Clean interview transcriptions
• Data Analysis and Reporting (35%)
  • Learn how to code qualitative data and support coding tasks
  • Identify trends and help to interpret findings
  • Assist with compiling information for reports
• Other duties as assigned (20%)
  • Attend research meetings
  • Share your perspectives to inform study team on protocol refinements
  • Conduct literature searches and write summaries or reviews
  • Organize and maintain study materials

Required Qualifications:

• Registered through the Step‑Up program
• Ability to keep information confidential
• Responsible and organized
• Communicates clearly and responds to messages promptly

Preferred Qualifications:

• Has an interest in technology, social media, or AI
• Enjoys working with others and values different perspectives and backgrounds with the ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities

Pay Range: $16.50/hour

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor‑Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.