Research Associate, Science

As a Research Associate on the Science and Society team, you’ll study how the public understands and experiences science innovations and issues at the center of societal discussion and debate. We study both timely and evergreen topics like trust in science, artificial intelligence, vaccines, and the STEM workforce.

We’re looking for a seasoned pollster skilled at translating complex concepts into smart, accessible surveys. You understand what it takes to craft methodologically sound survey questions, and you’re energized by digging into the data and finding compelling stories. You'll play a central role in developing questionnaires, analyzing data, creating charts and tables, and helping communicate findings to policymakers, journalists, researchers and the broader public.

The strongest candidates will be pros at survey design and measurement, with the technical skills to analyze data and communicate findings clearly both orally and in writing. They also bring very strong project management skills, with a track record of managing complex workflows and keeping projects on track in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. The Research Associate will work closely with colleagues across research and communications functions, and report to the Director, Science and Society Research.

Primary Responsibilities

Survey design and questionnaire development

• Lead development, refinement, and execution of survey questionnaires, from initial concept through fielding

• Identify and collate trend questions from external sources and past Center surveys

Data analysis

• Conduct advanced analyses of survey datasets and secondary data sources

• Interpret data, home in on key findings and patterns, and identify the most compelling stories emerging from the data

• Create clear, accessible charts and tables

Writing and other communication

• Write research reports and blog posts that distill complex findings for a general audience

• Fact-check and number-check all research products

• Respond to external and internal requests for information

• Contribute to creating digital content featuring research findings

• Present research findings to external audiences

Project Management

• Map out and manage project plans, timelines, and end-to-end workflows, ensuring projects stay on track and on time

• Coordinate multiple workstreams across research, communications, and other functions

• Proactively communicate with colleagues to keep them apprised of project status, key decisions, emerging roadblocks, and timelines

• Maintain strong knowledge management systems, ensuring project and team documentation is organized, accessible and up to date

• As needed, coordinate with outside vendors, including overseeing development of contracts             

Education/Training/Experience

• BA required, advanced degree preferred; degree in the social sciences such as sociology, political science, or related field.

• 5-9 years of research experience, with at least 3-5 years of specialized survey research and analysis experience expected.  Often includes significant graduate training in statistics and research methods, or equivalent experience in an applied setting.

• Demonstrated expertise with survey development, including question writing

• Proven ability to conduct rigorous data analysis, including substantial experience with statistical software, preferably R

• Familiarity and experience with a range of statistical techniques, including multiple regression analysis

• Training or experience in attitudinal, behavioral or demographic research related to social, economic or political change

• Experience managing complex research projects, including working collaboratively with colleagues across functions

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• Strong background in creating and analyzing general-population surveys

• Excellent quantitative skills, including an ability to use SPSS and other statistical programs to organize and analyze large amounts of data

• Attention to detail, including exacting standards to maintain accuracy and impartiality in all work products

• Editorial judgment and proven ability to communicate research results clearly and concisely for general audiences, both orally and in writing

• Demonstrated exceptionally strong project management skills

• Ability to work collaboratively and collegial