Gain hands-on experience in international survey methods and policy-relevant research as a Research Assistant with the Center for Global Democracy.
How to Get Involved
Vanderbilt students from diverse majors work as research assistants alongside CGD staff, faculty, and graduate students on meaningful research about public opinion in the Americas — building skills in data analysis, survey design, report writing, and more.
How to Apply
Complete the interest form to be notified when the next application opens.
(Note: this is an interest form only, not the actual application.)
In Their Own Words
“My favorite project so far was one that included coding survey data to create a set of word clouds to show US attitudes toward Mexico. I've also worked on literature reviews about non-response rates and public opinions about climate change. As a research assistant, I've learned how to manage and analyze data, and how to work with a team. LAPOP Lab has given me opportunities to use my Spanish language skills and to learn more about topics that interest me.”
— Alexa Bussmann, Senior, LAPOP Lab Advanced Undergraduate Research Assistant
“While working in LAPOP Lab, I've had the opportunity to explore a variety of research methods. I've especially enjoyed the projects which allow me to work with AmericasBarometer questionnaires — such as a project I completed last year in which I translated questions to best match the vocabulary of each country in the survey round. From looking at question construction and translation, to auditing surveys and examining data, working at LAPOP Lab has enabled me to see the whole process of carrying out a complex public opinion survey.”
— Grace Adcox, Senior, LAPOP Lab Advanced Undergraduate Research Assistant
“My first experience with LAPOP Lab was through a Public Opinion and Democracy in LAC seminar I took with Dr. Zechmeister. I was fascinated by the AmericasBarometer survey implementation process, and the way that people's voices could be collected and transformed into a comprehensive analysis of a broader situation. My favorite part of the class was writing an Insights report about human rights protection: it was so much fun! I love being a LAPOP Lab research assistant because I know I am contributing to the body of knowledge academics and policymakers utilize to improve people's lives.”
— Isabella Randle, Sophomore, LAPOP Lab Undergraduate Research Assistant
“I really enjoy how every task I do with LAPOP Lab challenges and engages me in a distinct way that helps me further develop different skills. It's humbling to know that I can help with such an important project that has such a tremendous impact.”