The Future of the Field

20 undergraduate research assistants devoted time to CARE studies this year alone.

If you have participated in one of our studies, chances are you’ve received emails, phone calls, texts, or even mail from us. More often than not, the folks behind those communications are our undergraduate research assistants, or RAs. One of our leading aims as a research center is to foster the next generation of bright thinkers and equip them with tools to thrive in their professional lives. We want our students to not only be cutting-edge researchers who work well with data, but to be compassionate treatment providers who know how to work well with people of all backgrounds.

CARE researchers and undergraduates stand around a table at KU's 2024 student wellness fair with a jeopardy board sharing facts about eating disorders.
CARE RAs join the lab coordinators in tabling at KU’s 2024 annual Student Wellness Fair to discuss eating disorders and treatment options with their peers.

In addition to working with data and contributing to the daily functioning of our major studies, CARE RAs have had multiple opportunities for professional growth. This year, they have:

  • Undergone qualitative interview training to perform interviews with study participants
  • Worked with graduate students to present research at community forums
  • Completed science communication projects, including social media posts, website pages, posters, and more to share center findings with a general audience
  • Tabled at university events to discuss CARE research with the KU population

Lab Values

RAs are trained on essential lab values that emphasize team science skills and research ethics.

Sharing Back

RAs learn how to communicate major study findings to non-academic populations as part of CARE’s focus on open research.

Mentorship

RAs have access to lab coordinators and Center directors who provide constructive feedback while encouraging growth each week.