Graduate Research Assistantship in Kinesiology: The University of Tennessee is now accepting applications for a fully funded Graduate Research Assistantship in the Department of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Studies (KRSS). This position begins in Fall 2026 and is aimed at supporting a doctoral student specializing in Physical Activity Epidemiology.
Selected candidates will work directly with Dr. Danielle Ostendorf in the ActiveChange Lab and carry out research that focuses on conditions including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and several obesity-related cancers.
Why Pursue This GRA Program?
- A competitive monthly stipend
- Full tuition waiver
- Coverage of mandatory fees
- Health insurance
- A 12-month appointment
- Renewal for up to 3 years based on performance and continued funding
- Travel funding and additional support may be available for conferences and professional development.
Program Description – Graduate Research Assistantship in Kinesiology
The GRA will contribute to an ongoing NIH-funded clinical trial (K01 HL161417), gaining direct experience in multi-method, human-centered health research involving both qualitative and quantitative components.
If you are selected:
- You will attend weekly study meetings and assist in the execution of study protocols. This includes collecting outcome data, conducting semi-structured interviews, entering participant information, and preparing interview recordings for analysis.
- You will be working with ATLAS.ti and helping conduct grounded theory analysis within a team-based environment. This study aims to understand how adults with overweight and obesity transition from engaging in physical activity over 6 months to maintaining those behaviors long-term. One major objective is the development of an integrated theory of behavior change and maintenance.
- The position provides training workshops and mentorship opportunities that build mixed-methods research skills, behavioral intervention development, manuscript preparation, and professional communication.
- You will attend scientific conferences, present research findings, and contribute to manuscripts submitted to peer-reviewed journals.
- Project reports are required at the end of each semester; hence, you will be required to submit your documentation within the deadline.
- You will have to maintain a strong academic standing throughout the program in order to maintain the renewal of the program.
Qualifications For This Graduate Research Assistantship In Kinesiology
- A completed Master’s degree in kinesiology or a related health/movement science field
- A GPA that satisfies UTK’s graduate program requirements
- Have a passion for research that aligns with the ActiveChange Lab, including intervention development, community-engaged approaches, and dissemination/implementation science
- Strong research foundations–particularly in independent project development, qualitative methods, physical activity assessment, behavioral theory, mixed methods, and data analysis
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage time effectively, and contribute to an interdisciplinary team
- Must be highly motivated and have experience in writing manuscripts, giving presentations, or conducting community-engaged research is highly valued
Application Process For The Graduate Research Assistantship In Kinesiology
Competitive applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Ostendorf via email. Prepare and attach the following documents:
- A strong CV
- Official transcripts
- A writing sample (if requested)
- A statement of research experience and goals
Submission procedures can be found via the Graduate School and the KRSS program webpage.
What Makes This Opportunity Unique?
This GRA offers a rare blend of high-quality mentorship, hands-on NIH-funded research, and advanced methodological training. Students gain:
- Experience conducting clinical trial research
- Training in qualitative and quantitative analysis
- Opportunities to publish peer-reviewed work early in their doctoral program
- Access to interdisciplinary collaboration at the Center for Precision Health
- Skills that translate into academic, clinical, and public health careers
Deadline and Contact Information
Application Deadline: Applications for Fall 2026 are currently ongoing, and it’s based on a rolling process. Therefore, early application is encouraged.