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Oregon Health & Science University

Research Assistant 2 (temporary)

🇺🇸 Portland, OR

🕑 Full-Time

💰 TBD

💻 Research

🗓️ August 21st, 2025

Edtech.com's Summary

Oregon Health & Science University is hiring a Research Assistant 2 (temporary) to prepare and document geospatial and traffic data for modeling traffic noise across Portland using NoiseModelling v5.0 or similar software. The role involves comparing noise estimates with other models, assessing noise pollution distribution by neighborhood socioeconomic factors, and creating maps and graphical summaries with R.

Highlights

  • Prepare and document geospatial and traffic data inputs for noise modeling.
  • Use pre-existing noise propagation modeling software to estimate traffic noise at residential addresses.
  • Compare noise model estimates to other modeled data and summarize results graphically.
  • Analyze noise exposure disparities by neighborhood socioeconomic variables.
  • Create maps using R geospatial packages and document the code and inputs.
  • Requires experience with R and prior data collection, processing, and documentation work.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience is necessary.
  • Preferred qualifications include a Master's in environmental health and GIS experience.
  • Temporary .80 FTE position for up to six months without benefits.
  • Desk-based role with a flexible schedule and no field work required.

Research Assistant 2 (temporary) Full Description

Department Overview: 
The OHSU-PSU School of Public Health (SPH) is aligned with the American Public Health Association in declaring racism a public health crisis, and our School is committed to becoming an antiracist SPH. We are working to center social justice in our internal and external work as a school and are committed to addressing structural and institutional racism, and to holding ourselves accountable to this work.
 
Research Assistant 2 (RA2) - Traffic Noise Modelling using Sound Propagation Model
 
In this role, the RA2 will prepare and document geospatial and traffic data for modelling traffic noise across Portland, Oregon using pre-existing modelling software such as NoiseModelling v5.0 (or similar) to generate noise estimates at residential addresses. The RA2 will compare estimates with other modelled noise estimates and will assess the distribution of residential traffic noise pollution by relevant neighborhood socioeconomic factors. The RA2 will gain GIS data management and processing skills, and will have the opportunity to learn how to reproducibly create maps and graphical summaries of geospatial data using R packages.

This is a .80 FTE temporary position for up to six months and is not benefits eligible. Function/Duties of Position: 
  • Identify, download, and document geospatial data inputs for noise model.
  • Prepare inputs for noise model and document processing steps.
  • Model noise using pre-existing propagation modelling software.
  • Compare propagation modelled estimates to other modelled estimates (e.g., LUR) and graphically summarize results.
  • Describe estimates by neighborhood variables (e.g., socioeconomic status to demonstrate neighborhood level exposure disparities) and document the process.
  • Map estimates using R geospatial packages and document the inputs/code.
 Required Qualifications: 
  • Bachelor's in relevant field OR
  • Associate's AND
  • 3 years of relevant experience OR
  • 4 years of relevant experience OR
  • Equivalent combination of training and experience 
  • Prior role that has involved data collection, processing, and documenting 
  • Must have some experience with R 
Preferred Qualifications: 
  • Master’s in environmental health or related field
  • GIS experience preferred 
  • Prior experience with geospatial packages in R would be beneficial but is not required
 Additional Details: 
Desk based role with flexible schedule, no field work.
 All are welcome: Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.