Graduate Assistantships Overview

What is a Graduate Assistantship?

An assistantship is awarded to a graduate student who provides teaching (teaching assistantship: TA) or research (research assistantship: RA) support to the University that is a part of their academic program. In recognition of this support, tuition is waived by the University and subsidized health insurance is offered. Graduate Assistants (GAs) are responsible for paying their student fees at the negotiated GA rate.

Who is Eligible to be a GA?

To be appointed, retain an appointment, or reappointed, a student must: hold Regular (not Provisional) status; maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least a “B” (3.00) in any course work taken; be eligible to register (that is, not have more than three viable grades of “Incomplete” on their academic record); be enrolled in a graduate degree program scheduled to extend through the entire period of the appointment or reappointment and; be a full-time student.

To perform duties with direct instructional responsibilities, graduate students appointed as Teaching Assistants (TAs) must provide proof of English language proficiency. Information on how to provide proof of proficiency can be found on UConn’s English Proficiency Policy for TAs and Testing Procedures Page.

What is the Appointment Length and Hours Per Week?

Effort devoted to the duties of a graduate assistantship typically range between 10 and 20 hours per week (also sometimes called a “half GA” and “full GA,” respectively). Appointments ordinarily are made for the nine-month period, August 23 through May 22, but may be of shorter duration for a variety of reasons.

What Benefits Do GAs Receive?

The Human Resources website provides detailed information about benefits available to GAs, including health insurance. If employed in an assistantship that falls under the Graduate Employee and Postdoc Union (GEU), additional benefits may be described in the GEU contract and on our GA Onboarding page.

Note, GAs solely employed at UConn Health do not fall under the GEU.

Do GAs Receive a Tuition Waiver?

GAs enrolled in tuition-based programs receive a tuition waiver for the duration of their appointment. GAs enrolled in fee-based programs are charged academic program fees, not tuition; therefore, tuition waivers are not applicable, nor will the GA appointment provide a waiver of academic program fees. A list of fee-based programs is provided by the Office of the Bursar. For tuition-based programs, while tuition will be waived, the GA is responsible for paying university fees at the negotiated rate. For fee-based programs, there is no available waiver for any part of the academic program fee, and the GA will be responsible for paying university fees at the negotiated rate. There is no tuition waiver for summer or winter intersession courses. When graduate fee bills are calculated by the Office of the Bursar, the tuition waiver will automatically populate to the eligible GAs’ fee bills, provided that two items are in place: an active payroll authorization input by the hiring department and enrollment in at least six credits for the semester.

What are Stipend Rates?

Stipend rates for graduate assistants, which can be found at payroll.uconn.edu, are based on levels that reflect progress toward the advanced degree and experience, defined as follows:

  • Level 1: For graduate assistants with at least the baccalaureate degree (as noted in the Graduate Employee Union contract as “Beginners [Pre-Masters]”).
  • Level 2: For graduate assistants in a doctoral program with at least a master’s degree or its equivalent in the field of graduate study (as noted in the Graduate Employee Union contract as “Masters or Equivalent”). Equivalency consists of 30 credits of appropriate graduate-level coursework beyond the baccalaureate degree, together with admission to a doctoral program. If the master’s degree was used to satisfy the equivalency of a bachelor’s degree for purposes of admission, the degree does not count toward Level 2 eligibility.
  • Level 3: For graduate assistants enrolled in a doctoral program who have passed the doctoral general examination and have the milestone reflected on their record (as noted in the Graduate Employee Union Contract as “PhD Candidate”).

Specific stipend rates may be found on the Payroll Department Website and will be included in the GA Offer Letter.

Are GAs Required to Complete Any Additional Trainings?

As part of their employee role, GAs are required to participate in these mandatory trainings. There may be additional trainings or orientations required or recommended depending on the specific GA duties. GAs should consult with their program/department for more details.

What is the Supplemental Description of Duties?

In addition to an offer letter for a graduate assistantship, the hiring department must also provide GAs with a “Supplemental Description of Duties” (SDD) form for each semester they are appointed. This form summarizes the specific duties a GA is expected to perform and may include, amongst other things: the assigned course, lab, research project, or position; the faculty member to whom the GA will report; course meeting times and location; the maximum number of students for which the GA will be responsible per class, section, lab, and more; and the work location. The SSD form must be signed by both the GAs’ supervisor and the GA. The SSD form may be issued separately from the assistantship offer letter.

Can GAs Hold Additional Employment?

Graduate Assistants seeking on-campus employment or wishing to hold an internship in addition to their full-time (20 hour) GA appointment during the semester must complete the online Supplemental Employment Approval form, which requires their advisor’s approval and is submitted to The Graduate School for final approval.

International students on UConn-sponsored visas are not able to work more than 20 hours per week during the semester.

Job Offer Acceptance Etiquette

When accepting a job offer, feel free to ask clarifying questions. If you feel that you are not being given enough time to make your decision, ask if additional time might be granted. Supervisors are encouraged to give candidates up to a week to accept an offer but sometimes this may not be possible.

If you intend on resigning from your current graduate assistantship to accept a new position, it is strongly recommended that you notify your supervisor of your resignation as soon as possible. This is crucial, as they are likely relying on your participation in teaching courses or labs. Advanced/immediate notice allows them to initiate the hiring process to fill any open positions and ensure that course offerings continue without disruption.

What’s Next?

Prospective applicants can indicate whether they would like to be considered for a graduate assistantship on their graduate school application.

Those who have already accepted an assistantship offer should visit the GA Onboarding Page for additional information, resources, and to-do items specific to your role as a GA to assist with helping you successfully transition into your assistantship.

Current GA Opportunities

Are you an academic or non-academic unit that would like to advertise a GA position here? If so, please send your job description to gradschool@uconn.edu to be posted. Additional guidance for non-academic units can be found on our Appointing a GA in a Non-Academic Unit Page.

2025-26 Education and Training Graduate Assistant (Office of University Compliance)

The Office of University Compliance supports the University's commitment to compliant and ethical conduct by providing educational training and resources, assisting decentralized compliance areas with monitoring efforts, and offering channels for individuals to ask questions and report concerns.

Campus location(s) of non-academic unit: 28 Professional Park Rd, Mansfield

Graduate Assistant Job Title: Education and Training Graduate Assistant

Position Summary: The Education and Training Graduate Assistant will support the education, awareness, training, and development initiatives of the Office of University Compliance. Responsibilities will include designing educational email campaigns, creating and delivering presentations, developing online training, micro-learning modules, videos, and job aids, and supporting related communication efforts.

Duration of the position: 2025-2026 academic year
Hours: 20 hours/week

Work location: Onsite/Remote Hybrid Option
Name and title of individual providing supervision: Kayla Hogrefe, Assistant Director for Education and Development

Three (3) Primary Career Readiness Competencies Associated with this Role Include:

  • Communication: Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives. The GA will create and deliver presentations, write educational materials, and communicate compliance concepts to diverse campus audiences through multiple channels using Adult Learning Theories and concepts.
  • Technology: Effectively use and leverage technologies to solve problems, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. The GA will utilize e-learning and video platforms, and digital communication tools to design and implement compliance education materials and communications.
  • Critical Thinking: Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information. The GA will help assess educational needs, analyze training effectiveness, and use data to identify opportunities for enhancement and/or new innovative strategies to address business and program needs.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Assist with the coordination, maintenance, and evaluation of compliance education, training, and awareness efforts; provide recommendations for enhancements as appropriate
  • Collaboratively develop innovative education and training materials to promote compliance across the institution using a variety of technologies, methods, and platforms
  • Design and develop compliance program communications, including newsletters, videos, email campaigns, and other marketing materials
  • Support data collection and analysis for program evaluation and reporting

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must be a currently enrolled master’s or doctoral student
  • Field of study: Educational Technology, Adult Learning, Digital Media Design, or a related discipline
  • Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage shifting priorities
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
  • Experience developing and delivering education and training programs, including facilitation of classes, live trainings, and/or workshops AND/OR experience in a communications role
  • Strong digital design skills and an eye for visual communication
  • Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and effectively use new technologies, software platforms, and digital tools

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience and working knowledge of educational tools and programs such as Articulate 360, Vyond, Constant Contact, or similar platforms
  • Familiarity with best practices in instructional design, adult learning theory, or compliance education
  • Experience with program evaluation, including data collection and analysis

Application Steps & Materials
Please submit all application materials to kayla.hogrefe@uconn.edu with the Subject line: Graduate Assistant Position

Include the following materials

  1. Cover letter
  2. Resume
  3. Contact information for two professional references (one must be a current/past supervisor)
  4. Optional: Link to a portfolio showing previous design work. This could include online trainings, videos, presentations, infographics, email campaigns, job aids, or any other projects that show your experience creating educational or training materials

Applications are reviewed and invitations to interview are sent on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Compensation and Benefits Statement
Compensation & Benefits: Stipend consistent with UConn Graduate Employee Union (GEU) rates and successful candidate’s level of education. Stipend rates can be found here. See the GEU contract for other generous benefits provided, including paid time off, tuition remission, and subsidized health insurance through the Connecticut Partnership Plan.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer.

2025-26 Academic Advising Graduate Assistant

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) is seeking a graduate student interested in working with undergraduate students in an advising capacity on the Storrs campus for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The Academic Services Center is seeking candidates who are detail orientated, flexible, take initiative, can multitask and manage multiple tasks, enjoy working independently and as a team, and are open to learn, grow, and develop professional skills working with students in an advising capacity.

Campus Location: Storrs, CT

Graduate Assistant Job Title: Graduate Assistant Academic Advisor

Position Summary: 

The items below describe the duties that are required as part of this assistantship:

Duties:

  • Manage a caseload of +/- 200 students (advisees)
  • Advise undergraduate students, at all levels, in planning their academic program, including advising on specific curriculum decisions, the appropriate choice and scheduling of courses, degree options, academic deadlines and other related items
  • Audits student records to determine progress toward meeting academic requirements and to assess eligibility to graduate
  • Advises students in planning an academic program and may provide advice regarding career goals
  • Maintains appropriate files and records, which may be computerized, and assists in compiling statistical reports
  • Assists in planning and implementing scheduling and registration activities as assigned
  • Serve as a resource for students, faculty, and staff and make referrals as appropriate
  • Assist with administrative tasks, projects, and events
  • Performs related duties as required

Details:

  • This is a full GA position, 20 hours per week in person
  • The successful applicant will be trained in University, and CLAS policies, and procedures and major requirements as they pertain to certain degree undergraduate programs
  • Priority is given to PhD candidates
  • GA renewals are typically subject to continued availability of funds, departmental need and satisfactory progress in degree program

 

Education and Prior Experience Requirements: Eligibility for this graduate assistantship is dependent on active enrollment in a master's or doctoral program at the University of Connecticut for the 2025-2026 academic year

Application Steps & Materials: Please submit all application materials by email to CLASASC@uconn.edu with the Subject line: Graduate Assistant Application-Academic Advising

Include the following materials:

  1. Cover letter
  1. Resume
  1. Contact information (phone number and email address) for three professional or academic references, who can speak to your ability to be successful in the position

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with final submission deadline for consideration: May 7, 2025

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer.

Budget, Planning, & Institutional Research (BPIR) Graduate Assistant

Graduate Assistant – Budget, Planning, & Institutional Research (BPIR)
2025/2026 Academic Year
Web-Based Data Analytics & Dashboard Development

The Office of Budget, Planning and Institutional Research (BPIR) at the University of Connecticut is seeking a talented and motivated graduate student to develop and maintain a website and interactive data dashboard for tracking student success, career outcomes, and economic impact. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in web development, data visualization, and advanced programming while contributing to a meaningful project.

Responsibilities:

• Design and develop a user-friendly, interactive website to present labor market analytics and student success data.
• Utilize modern web frameworks such as React.js to build an intuitive front-end experience.
• Implement back-end processing to handle data queries and API requests.
• Develop interactive data dashboards creatively to visualize key metrics and insights.
• Ensure data accuracy, security, and compliance with FERPA and university policies.
• Maintain and update the website and dashboard as new data becomes available.
• Document development processes, ensuring clear guidelines for future maintenance.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be a currently enrolled doctoral student
• Field of study: Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related disciplines.
• Proficiency in web development technologies (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React.js, Vue.js).
• Experience with Python, R, or JavaScript for data manipulation and visualization.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet critical project milestones.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience in team-based research projects.

 

Workload: 20 hours/week

 

Application Process:

• Interested candidates should submit the following materials to impact@uconn.edu by March 31, 2025:

o Resume or CV detailing relevant experience.
o A brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position.
o (Optional) A portfolio or GitHub link showcasing previous web development or data visualization projects.

 

Technical Assessment:

• Qualified candidates will be invited to complete a coding challenge between April 16 –April 30, 2025.
• A sample dataset will be provided.
• Candidates must develop a sample webpage that presents data visualizations based on the dataset.

 

Start Date: August 25th, 2025

 

Contact: Yizhi Zhu, Ph.D. Research and Planning Analyst II (impact@uconn.edu)

 

UConn’ BPIR is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Fall 2025 Sports Statistics Experiential Learning Graduate Assistant

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is seeking a part-time graduate student to engage undergraduate scholars as part of the Sports Statistics Experiential Learning Program. In addition to performing tasks associated with this role (outlined below) the graduate assistant may also be called on to provide general support to the CLAS Academic Services Center to provide administrative and data support.  The Academic Services Center is seeking candidates who are detail orientated, flexible, take initiative, can multitask and manage multiple tasks, enjoy working independently and as a team, and are open to learn, grow, and develop professional skills working with students and other professionals.

Campus Location: Storrs, CT

Graduate Assistant Job Title: Graduate Assistant for the Sports Statistics Experiential Learning Program

Duration of Position: August 25, 2025-December 12, 2025. May have an option to renew for Spring 2026.

Position Summary: The Graduate Assistant for the Sports Statistics Experiential Learning Program is a 10-hour per week position who will work with the ASC on various data projects and support the undergraduate students participating in the experiential learning program.

  1. Provide administrative and data support to the Academic Services Center (ASC) including department advising offices.
  1. Assist advisors in gathering student data and assessing CLAS initiatives. May include assessing student progress, course enrollment, engagement with University or College processes, including advising and probation requirements.
  1. Assists in planning and implementing scheduling and registration activities, orientation programs and other activities, as assigned.
  1. Serve as resource for students, faculty and staff, and make referrals as appropriate.
  1. Maintains appropriate files and records, which may be computerized, and assists in compiling statistical reports.
  1. Perform office support functions.
  1. Participate in special projects, as assigned.
  1. Performs related duties as required.

Sports Statistics Experiential Learning Program Tasks

  • Assist faculty as part of the experiential learning program
  • Assist the Data Science Program Internship Coordinator
  • Serve as a liaison with the Athletics Department
  • Meet weekly with participating undergraduate students
  • Provide consulting on projects
  • Assist with student questions regarding analytics projects
  • Assist teams with questions regarding analytics projects

Education and Prior Experience Requirements: Eligibility for this graduate assistantship is dependent on active enrollment in a master's or doctoral program at the University of Connecticut for the 2025-2026 academic year

Application Steps & Materials: Please submit all application materials by email to CLASASC@uconn.edu with the Subject line: Graduate Assistant Application-Sports Statistics Experiential Learning Program.

Include the following materials:

  1. Cover letter
  1. Resume
  2. Contact information (phone number and email address) for three professional or academic references, who can speak to your ability to be successful in the position

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with final submission deadline for consideration: May 7,2025

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer.

Human Rights Events & Communications Graduate Assistant

The Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute (HRI) at the University of Connecticut seeks to fill a full-time (20 hours/week) Graduate Assistant position for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute (HRI) at the University of Connecticut is one of the nation’s leading academic centers in human rights research, teaching, and outreach. Faculty combine theoretical and practical expertise on contemporary human rights issues to produce innovative scholarship and prepare students to engage across a spectrum of professions on the most pressing rights issues of our time. We aim to educate well-rounded students with an informed understanding of human rights, promote interdisciplinary scholarship that advances human rights knowledge and practice, and foster dynamic forms of public engagement.

 

We are looking to fill a graduate assistantship to support research groups, communications and events.  This graduate assistant will support HRI and its Dodd Impact Programs’ active research and public engagement programming through communications and event coordination support.

 

Ideal candidates can work independently and as part of a collaborative team, will have a demonstrated interest in the field of human rights, and experience in communications and/or event planning. Meticulous attention to detail and a strong command of the English language are essential to the role. The incumbent will interact regularly with HRI’s staff, faculty, and other graduate assistants, as well as event speakers, guests, and external partners.

 

Communications and Event Coordination Support

The graduate assistant will provide dynamic, hands-on support in the planning, promotion, and execution of events, and assist with communications for the Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute. This position is ideal for students pursuing careers in marketing, communications, event management, journalism, higher education administration, or related fields.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in the planning and execution of in-person, hybrid, and online events under the direction of HRI staff and in coordination with faculty research groups.
    • Develop promotional materials for events using graphic design (Canva), email marketing (Mailchimp), and social media (Hootsuite) software platforms.
    • Circulate materials through university calendars, digests, social media, and send them to relevant mailing lists at regular intervals leading up to events or other programming.
    • Update and maintain event planning records, recordings, and registration lists in HRI’s event database.
    • Attend and provide on-site support during events; occasional evening hours required.
  • Assist in the preparation of HRI’s weekly digest, modifying content from the roster of upcoming events, news, and announcements across the academic and research programs.
  • Work with HRI staff and faculty to order catering, books, reserve rooms, and gather receipts for administrative record-keeping.
  • Assist in the maintenance and development of HRI’s website and related webpages.

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Enrollment in a master’s or doctoral degree program at the University of Connecticut.
  • Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Organized, proactive, and detail-oriented.
  • Availability for in-person work in the HRI offices on the UConn Storrs campus at minimum 2-3 days per week depending on unit activities.

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Past experience in in-person, online, and hybrid event-planning and support.
  • Experience with graphic design (Canva), email marketing (Mailchimp), and social media planning (Hootsuite) platforms, or other similar tools.
  • Familiarity with social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn) as well as online meeting platforms (Zoom, Zoom Webinar, Cisco WebEx, Microsoft Teams).
  • Experience with website maintenance and content updates using a WordPress-based platform, including basic webpage development, formatting, and publishing. Familiarity with digital accessibility standards a plus.
  • Strong familiarity with Microsoft 365 tools, including OneDrive, SharePoint, Excel, Forms, Teams, and Planner, with the ability to navigate, collaborate, and organize tasks efficiently within these platforms.

 

Application Process

Interested candidates should use the following link to send (1) a cover letter, (2) a resume, and (3) the name and contact information for two professional references to the review committee. If you have questions about the position, please contact Alex Branzell, alex.branzell@uconn.edu.

 

In your cover letter, please describe your experience as it relates to the preferred qualifications listed, particularly if not directly evident in your resume.

 

We will review applications on a rolling basis and continue until the position is filled.

 

More Information

Graduate Assistants qualify for a tuition waiver, stipend, and benefits. For more information on these features, visit grad.uconn.edu/graduate-assistantships/.

 

Application Link

https://forms.office.com/r/WujjSq87rf

 

*This form requires signing in via UConn’s Microsoft 365 system. If you are new to the university and do not yet have a UConn email, please email your materials to alex.branzell@uconn.edu.

Marketing and Communications Graduate Assistant

Department

Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills

 

Graduate Assistant Job Title

Marketing and Communications Graduate Assistant

 

Campus Location

202 Wilbur Cross Building (WCB), Storrs Campus

 

Duration of the position

August 2025 – May 2026 with the potential to renew

 

Hours

20 hours per week, in-person

 

Name and title of individual providing supervision

Evan McMunn, Publicity and Marketing Administrator

 

Three (3) primary Career Readiness Competencies Associated with the role
Communication
Teamwork
Technology

 

Position Summary

The Marketing and Communications Graduate Assistant will directly contribute to the brand awareness strategy of the Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills. This will be accomplished through various communication channels including but not limited to, email, blogging, website development and management, social media, and video. In addition to supporting the overall brand, the Marketing and Communication Graduate Assistant will aid in the supervision and mentoring of Marketing Interns as they complete projects related to the promotion of Career Center events, services, resources, coaching, and Becoming Career Ready best practices.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assists the Publicity and Marketing Administrator with overseeing, training, and mentoring a team of undergraduate Marketing Interns.
  • Content scheduling – assists Publicity and Marketing Administrator in building out content schedules in coordination with Career Center’s short and long-term goals.
  • Event promotion - markets Career Center events to targeted student populations via email, social media, student organization collaborations, department collaborations, and other UConn communication channels such as Daily Digest and Soapbox.
  • Career Center Brand Awareness - Increases awareness of the programs and services offered by the Center via email campaigns, social media posts, original video content, and blog posts.
  • Email Marketing Analysis - Analyzes email communications sent through multiple platforms and uses the data to inform best practices for future email communication.
  • Social Media Research - Analyzes past social media content to determine what is driving engagement and make recommendations on what content should be increased or decreased. Researches emerging platforms and makes recommendations on joining and posting on additional networks.
  • Website Management and Analysis – Audits the Career Center website and reviews peer websites to recommend enhancements and modifications to the website. Adds, modifies, removes content as needed.
  • Blogging - Creates blog posts promoting a combination of Career Center events, resources, and services. Assists in the review and scheduling of all blogs submitted by professional staff, student staff, and guest bloggers. Interviews Career Champions about how they infuse career readiness into their work with students. Uses the interview transcripts to write blog posts and social media content.

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Documented experience in a Marketing or Communications role. This can include experience as an undergraduate student.
  • Excellent storytelling, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to provide clear, concise feedback.
  • Ability to work on tight timelines and shift priorities as needed.
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere.
  • Experience with a website Content Management System such as WordPress.

 

Education and Prior Experience Requirements
Pursuing master’s degree or doctoral degree at the University of Connecticut

 

Application Steps and Materials

Please submit all application materials by email to evan.mcmunn@uconn.edu with the Subject Line: Marketing GA Application. Please include the following application materials:

  1. Résumé
  2. Cover Letter
  3. Contact information for three (2) professional references
  4. Writing Sample. This can include but is not limited to a blog post, newspaper article, social media posts for a club or organization

 

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with final submission deadline for consideration: May 23, 2025. Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis.

 

Compensation and Benefits Statement

Compensation & Benefits: Stipend consistent with UConn Graduate Employee Union (GEU) rates and successful candidate’s level of education. Stipend rates can be found here. See the GEU contract for other generous benefits provided, including paid time off, tuition remission, and subsidized health insurance through the Connecticut Partnership Plan.

 

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO employer.

 

Questions may be directed to: Evan McMunn, evan.mcmunn@uconn.edu

REINVENT-PT Lab Graduate Assistant (Kinesiology)

Introduction
The REINVENT-PT lab (REhabilitation INnoVations & Emerging Novel Technologies in Physical Therapy, Principal Investigator (PI): Dr. Sudha Srinivasan) at the University of Connecticut (UConn) is seeking diligent, energetic, and empathetic students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in Kinesiology beginning Fall 2025.

The REINVENT-PT lab is interested in understanding developmental trajectories of individuals with neuro-developmental disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down Syndrome, and Intellectual Disability across the lifespan. We are interested in studying how infants and children with developmental disabilities explore their physical and social environment compared to typically developing peers, as well as the cascading effects of motor difficulties on a child’s social communication and cognitive development. We are also interested in assessing health-related outcomes in adolescents and young adults with developmental disabilities, including their physical activity and physical fitness levels. Based on our understanding of the developmental trajectories of individuals with disabilities, our goal is to develop multisystem, engaging, evidence-based, behavioural interventions and assistive technologies to empower the lives of people with disabilities. We are interested in developing motivating interventions that harness an individual’s intrinsic interests/preferences in positive ways to bring about sustained behaviour change.

Past work in our lab has included: (1) developing and assessing the effects of creative movement-based interventions involving music, dance, and yoga for children with autism; (2) assessing physical activity levels in youth with developmental disabilities compared to typically developing peers and understanding stakeholder perspectives related to facilitators and barriers around physical activity engagement among youth with disabilities; and (3) designing accessible and user-friendly communication aids for nonverbal and minimally-verbal children with disabilities and assessing the effects of a training program using novel assistive technologies. In addition, our lab has conducted and published multiple systematic reviews and perspectives in the areas of physical activity, equine therapies, telehealth-based interventions, and creative movement therapies.

Our work on project (1) suggests that whole-body creative movement interventions that promote playful exploration, creativity, improvisation, and self-expression are inherently more enjoyable and motivating for children with autism compared to standard-of-care interventions. Moreover, these interventions can promote multisystem development in perceptuo-motor, social communication, and cognitive domains among children with autism. Our work so far on project (2) suggests that youth with disabilities have lower levels of physical fitness, engage in lower levels of physical activity, are more sedentary, and have lower levels of motor proficiency/function compared to typically developing peers. Moreover, focus group discussions with youth with disabilities, their caregivers, special educators, and therapists indicate that youth with disabilities prefer activities that are fun, non-competitive, and that promote interactions with neurotypical peers. Families face several barriers in promoting physical activity among youth including limitations related to accessibility and affordability of adult-oriented programs, availability of trained personnel, and challenges in balancing multiple work and family-related commitments. Finally, results from project (3) suggest that a 3-month training program provided in a special school setting using a child-friendly, icon-driven communication system called Jellow, which was developed following multiple user studies, led to improvements in communication skills among 17 children with autism.

Over the last 4 years, our lab’s work has focused on exploring the utility and efficacy of using playful joystick-operated ride-on toys to promote upper extremity function and spontaneous use in children with hemiplegia. Children with hemiplegia have poor control, specifically in their upper extremity, on their affected side, which leads to significant limitations in daily activities and their ability to participate in play, at school, and within the community. Current evidence-based clinical practice guidelines suggest that children with cerebral palsy require intensive practice for several hours per week to produce meaningful improvements in function and participation. Our line of work is aimed at assessing the adjunctive value of playful training programs using joystick-operated ride-on toys in addition to conventional rehabilitation to improve arm use and function among children with hemiplegia. We are interested in exploring the feasibility of implementing such training programs within multiple settings and as part of different service delivery models, e.g., at home, clinic, school, summer camp, within the community, etc. We are also interested in comparing the efficacy of single- versus dual-joystick ride-on-toy navigation training in improving unimanual and bimanual function in children with hemiplegia. The new graduate student joining the lab will receive the opportunity to work on funded projects in the lab related to this line of research with children with hemiplegia. We have recently received funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a 6-week ride-on-toy navigation training intervention compared to a dose-matched intervention standard-of-care seated intervention among 30 children with hemiplegia between 3 and 8 years.

As a graduate student, the prospective candidate will be involved in multiple related projects in the lab starting with the recently funded RCT. The student will be engaged in several aspects of the research process including preparing materials to get approval for research from the institutional review board, participant recruitment and screening, data collection and administration of standardized
tests/measures with children/youth, development and delivery of novel treatment protocols, data coding and analysis, and data dissemination through manuscript writing. The student will have the opportunity to learn technical skills (e.g., motion capture techniques, accelerometery to assess arm activity, video data-based behavioural coding software, post-processing algorithms to analyse collected data, scientific presentation and writing skills, critical review of published literature, etc.) and soft skills (e.g., time management, multi-tasking, mentoring undergraduate students, etc.). The student will also be interacting on a regular basis, under the supervision of the PI, with undergraduate and graduate students working in the lab on research projects.

The Department of Kinesiology at the University of Connecticut (UConn) is regarded as one of the best in the United States, with the doctoral program ranked #2 in the US. The faculty includes recognized leaders in the fields of exercise science, athletic training, and physical therapy. Given the nature of our work, our lab also works closely with the Psychological Sciences and Biomedical Engineering Departments at UConn. In addition, the PI is an affiliate of the Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP; https://chip.uconn.edu/home/) and the Connecticut Institute of the Brain and Cognitive Sciences (IBACS; https://ibacs.uconn.edu/). The student may be able to work with faculty within these institutes/centres and take relevant training courses offered by these institutes/centres. As a part of their graduate curriculum, the student will receive an interdisciplinary education, which may include several courses in statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, developmental disabilities, exercise science, exercise prescription, scientific presentations, grant writing, and human development and family studies. The plan of study will be tailored based on the requirements of the topic of the student’s dissertation and in accordance with the lab’s research agenda.

Required Qualifications and Attributes

  1. Master’s degree in Physical Therapy/Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy or related fields with a specialization in Neuroscience or Rehabilitation or Paediatrics, with a strong academic record. Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy/Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy, with a strong academic record, may be considered for the position. (Note: Students with a Bachelor’s degree will need to get their Master’s degree at UConn prior to beginning their PhD curriculum. This requirement need not be separately satisfied - it will be integrated into the student’s PhD program.). Students from other related fields with relevant experience working with children or individuals with developmental disabilities will be considered.
  2. 1-2 years of experience working with children or young adults with developmental disabilities.
  3. Experience with research including designing a study, obtaining approval for human subjects research, recruitment of participants, data collection, data analyses, and data dissemination (e.g., writing manuscripts, presenting at conferences through platform and/or poster presentations, writing abstracts for submission to conferences/annual meetings, etc.).
  4. Ability and willingness to learn and work hard, with great attention to detail.
  5. High levels of motivation, passion for research, and academic curiosity to excel.
  6. Willingness to take the initiative in designing and solving research-related problems.
  7. Excellent interpersonal and time management skills and ability to work as part of an inter-disciplinary team.
  8. Strong written and oral communication skills (as indicated by TOEFL scores>100/120 or IELTS score > 7/10, writing sample, and as assessed during virtual interview) and leadership qualities to work with research staff and students in the lab.
  9. Proficiency in using MS-Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
  10. Working knowledge of statistics, research design, and quantitative skills, as assessed by GRE scores > 300. (Note: In exceptional circumstances, the GRE requirement may be waived, but this is completely at the discretion of the PI.)
  11. Willingness and ability to drive a car to travel within 1.5 hour driving distance from UConn for data collections (note, mileage reimbursement will be provided for travel)

Preferred Qualifications and Attributes

  1. Knowledge of motion tracking systems and their use for measuring upper and lower extremity kinematics
  2. Knowledge of programming using MATLAB®
  3. Experience with brain imaging tools such as fNIRS, EEG, etc.

To Apply
To apply for this position, please send the following materials via email to Dr. Sudha Srinivasan at sudha.srinivasan@uconn.edu

  1. A cover letter with at least 2 references (please provide contact information and details of at least 2 of your references who can be contacted for more information);
  2. Curriculum Vitae (describing educational qualifications, trainings/certifications, and relevant work/research experience);
  3. A brief (1-2 pages) statement of interests (please clearly define your research interests and discuss how your interests align with the work we pursue in our lab; please add what you think you will bring to our lab and what you hope to gain from pursuing research in our lab);
  4. A writing sample (thesis draft / journal article / review paper / conference paper, etc.).

Next Steps

  • Upon review of your application packet by the lab PI, you may be contacted for a virtual 1.5-hour interview, if you are shortlisted for the position. The interview will help the PI learn more about your academic qualifications, career aspirations, potential fit with the lab agenda, interpersonal skills, expectations from the program and your advisor, and any other issues on which the PI would like clarification.
  • Following this initial interview, the PI may schedule a second interview that will involve a presentation of your past work / research project / publication.
  • If the PI selects your application, you will be requested to formally apply to UConn. Please note that you can apply to UConn BEFORE you take the TOEFL &/or GRE. Steps for completing the UConn application, along with timelines, are outlined here: https://grad.uconn.edu/admissions/requirements/
  • Assistantships: Based on your interactions with the PI, you may be selected to receive a research or teaching assistantship (RA/TA). If you are on at least a 50% RA/TA (i.e., involving 10 hours of work per week), your tuition fees are waived by the university. Please note that the assistantship allows you to work as an academic assistant at UConn while still pursuing your graduate education at the university. The duties of an RA/TA are decided in conjunction with your primary advisor and the needs of the department that will hire you. More information on assistantships can be found at: https://grad.uconn.edu/assistantships/
  • Other helpful links for students are as follows: