About this role.
This professional research assistant role serves as the Project Manager for the Human-Centered Transportation (HCT@CU) initiative at the University of Colorado Denver. The position involves coordinating multiple interdisciplinary research projects, managing data and IRB compliance, supervising student researchers, and supporting external partnerships and grant development. The role requires strong organizational, communication, and project management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across faculty, students, and municipal partners. It offers a blend of research support, operational oversight, and strategic engagement in the transportation field.
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Cover letter sample
Dear Hiring Committee,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Project Manager position for the Human-Centered Transportation (HCT@CU) initiative at the University of Colorado Denver. With a strong background in project management and research coordination, I am excited about the opportunity to support your interdisciplinary transportation projects and advance human-centered solutions.
My experience managing multiple concurrent research projects, ensuring IRB compliance, and supervising student researchers aligns well with the responsibilities of this role. I have a proven track record of collaborating with external partners and translating complex data into actionable insights, which I believe will contribute directly to the success of HCT@CU.
I am particularly drawn to this position because it blends operational rigor with meaningful community engagement. I am eager to bring my skills in grant writing, data management, and stakeholder communication to support the team's impactful work.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the HCT@CU initiative.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample interview questions
In my previous role, I managed a portfolio of three research projects simultaneously. I utilized project management tools like Asana and Gantt charts to track milestones, held weekly check-ins with team members, and regularly communicated with stakeholders to adjust priorities. This structured approach helped us consistently meet deadlines and maintain high-quality outputs.
I would first establish a thorough understanding of the relevant IRB requirements and sponsor regulations. I would create a compliance checklist for each project, schedule submissions well in advance, and maintain transparent communication with the IRB office. I would also ensure that all research staff are trained on data privacy and handling protocols.
I once worked with municipal partners who requested additional data analyses mid-project. I organized a meeting to clarify their needs while explaining the potential impact on the timeline. We prioritized the most critical requests and adjusted the project plan, ensuring both partner satisfaction and core objectives were met without sacrificing quality.
I have extensive experience using tools like Excel, SQL, and R for data management. To ensure quality, I implement standardized naming conventions, version control, and regular audits. I also document all data processes thoroughly, and I train student researchers on proper data entry and validation procedures to minimize errors.
I would establish clear expectations and provide structured onboarding for student researchers. I would hold regular one-on-one meetings to monitor progress, offer constructive feedback, and encourage professional development. I would also assign tasks that align with their skills and academic goals, fostering their growth while ensuring project efficiency.
Job Number:
39606)
Description
Position Details
University of Colorado | Denver
Faculty Level/Title: Professional Research Assistant
Working Title: Project Manager – Human-Centered Transportation (HCT@CU)
FTE: Full-time
Salary Range: $48,410.00 – $65,250.00
Position #00846540 – Requisition #39606
About the University of Colorado Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We’re the state’s premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top-ranked bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners—at any stage of their life and career—for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state’s largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $665 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu.
Job Description
* Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers *
The Professional Research Assistant (PRA) serves as the project manager for the Human-Centered Transportation at CU Denver (HCT@CU) initiative. This position provides research coordination, project management, and operational support for a portfolio of interdisciplinary, externally engaged research projects.
The PRA collaborates with the Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PIs, and senior personnel to manage multiple concurrent projects involving municipal, regional, and national partners. Responsibilities include coordinating project activities, overseeing data acquisition, IRB applications, and other regulatory compliance, supervising student researchers, and supporting research development and external funding efforts.
Project Manager – Human-Centered Transportation (HCT@CU)
What you will do:
Project Management and Coordination – 35%
• Manage multiple concurrent research projects, including timelines, deliverables, and coordination across faculty, staff, student employees, and external partners.
• Serve as primary point of contact for partner-driven research requests.
• Coordinate meetings, track progress, and ensure timely completion of project deliverables.
Research Support and Execution – 20%
• Contribute to research activities including study design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Support preparation of reports, publications, and presentations.
Data Management, Reporting, and Communications – 20%
• Develop and maintain project datasets, documentation, and reporting systems.
• Prepare and coordinate project reports, briefs, and other deliverables for sponsors and partners.
• Ensure data quality, consistency, and compliance with sponsor requirements.
• Support dissemination of research findings through written materials, HCT@CU website and social media content, and other communication channels.
Supervision of Student Researchers – 10%
• Supervise and coordinate the work of a Graduate Research Assistant and undergraduate student researcher.
• Provide guidance on project tasks and professional development.
External Engagement and Partnerships – 10%
• Support collaboration with external partners, including participation in meetings and coordination of joint activities.
• Assist in maintaining and expanding research partnerships.
Grant Development and Strategic Support – 5%
• Assist with preparation of proposals and supporting materials for external funding.
• Contribute to development of preliminary results and research materials for future submissions.
Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
• Doctoral degree (PhD) in Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Transportation, Public Health, Data Science, or a closely related field.
• Experience managing research projects or complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
• Experience coordinating work across interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience working with external partners such as public agencies or community organizations.
• Experience with data management, analysis, or visualization.
Preferred Qualification to possess (Preferred Qualifications)
• Experience with externally funded research (e.g., NSF, USDOT, NIH, or similar).
• Experience contributing to grant or proposal development.
• Familiarity with transportation data, GIS, Python, R, and related analytical tools.
• Experience supervising or mentoring students or research staff.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Conditions of Employment
• Occasional work during the evening and/or weekends may be required.
• This position follows a hybrid work structure where employees can work remotely or from the office, as needed, based on demands of specific tasks or personal work preferences. Working from the office is encouraged when working on tasks that require a high degree of collaboration.
Mental, Physical, and/or Environmental Requirements
• This position may be performed on site, and will require the ability to sit for extended periods, stand and walk occasionally, reach with hands and arms, use hands to manipulate a keyboard and mouse, and have good near vision for computer work; often requiring minimal lifting, but may involve bending or reaching to retrieve items from shelves or drawers.
• This position may be performed in a hybrid environment, requiring the ability to work effectively in a remote setting. This includes maintaining a dedicated workspace free of excessive noise or distractions, reliable internet connectivity, and the ability to participate in virtual meetings for extended periods. Employees must be able to independently manage time, remain stationary for prolonged computer-based work, and transport necessary equipment (such as a laptop and peripherals).
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu .
Employment Sponsorship
• Please be advised that this position is not eligible now or in the future for visa sponsorship. Candidate must be a US citizen or permanent resident.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $48,410 – $65,250.
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.
The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado Denver provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Benefits statement to include in all benefits-eligible positions. See Eligibility Matrix.
Benefits: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits
Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125
Application Deadline
• Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Preference will be given to complete applications received by August 4th, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.
Required Application Materials:
To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:
• A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position.
• Curriculum vitae / Resume outlining experience(s).
• Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address. (We will notify you prior to contacting both on and off-list references).
Questions should be directed to Wesley Marshall, Wesley.marshall@ucdenver.edu
Background Check Policy
The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.
Application Materials Required: Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Additional Attachments – Refer to Application Materials Instructions Below
Primary Location
: Denver
Schedule
: Full-time
Job Posting
: Jul 30, 2026
Unposting Date
: Aug 5, 2026, 5:59:00 AM
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