Director of Research and Insights

Overview

POSITION TITLE: Director, Research and Insights

REPORTS TO: Vice President, Center for Antisemitism Research 

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Potentially fellows, contractors, interns and 1-4 staff 

LOCATION: Anywhere ADL has an office 

Grade/Class: Grade H, Exempt, PSA-Eligible 

 

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION: 

 

ADL is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all. 

 

PRIMARY FUNCTION: 

 

The Director of Research and Insight leads our research agenda, manages a team of scholars, and drives innovative approaches to understanding and addressing contemporary antisemitism. The ideal candidate has an academic background committed to rigorous interdisciplinary research. Experience and expertise in translating findings into actionable strategies for policymakers, educators, and the public are critical for this role.

Responsibilities

Research Leadership & Strategy:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive research strategy that advances the Center’s mission;
• Identify emerging trends in antisemitism and design research initiatives that address its manifestations;
• Collaborate with scholars from diverse disciplines (e.g., history, sociology, psychology, political science, communications) to produce high-impact research.

 

Team Management & Mentorship:

• Lead a team of researchers, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities;
• Foster a collaborative research environment that encourages innovation and critical inquiry;
• Oversee the recruitment and mentorship of research fellows, postdoctoral scholars, and graduate students.

 

Public Engagement & Advocacy:

• Translate research findings into policy recommendations, educational materials, and public discourse;
• Engage with policymakers, journalists, educators, and community leaders to enhance understanding of antisemitism and effective responses to it;
• Represent the Center in media, conferences, and public events.

 

Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships:

• Build and maintain partnerships with academic institutions, think tanks, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations;
• Work closely with other units inside ADL to integrate research into organization-wide policy and practice;
• Contribute to interdisciplinary initiatives that explore the intersections of antisemitism with other forms of discrimination and bias.

Qualifications

Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to engage with both academic and public audiences.

 

Attributes: 

• Committed to contributing to a culture that values diverse perspectives, a culture where everyone thrives; 
• Collaborative team-player;  
• Creative and innovative; takes initiative; 
• Results-oriented – a problem solver (versus a problem identifier); 
• Excels in dynamic environments that require adaptability; 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously; 
• Energized by ADL’s mission and work. 

 

Work Experience:

• The ideal candidate has significant demonstrable experience leading research projects and managing research teams and is literate in a range of research methodologies.
• Experience working with policymakers, NGOs, or advocacy organizations on issues related to antisemitism, hate crimes, or intergroup relations preferred.
• Familiarity with survey research, experimental methods, or digital research tools.
• A track record of community engagement, including participating in interviews or delivering public talks.

 

Education:

• Advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., economics, political science, sociology, Jewish studies, psychology, communication, or a related discipline).

Work Environment: 

• ADL is a hybrid environment; this role may require 3 days in the office. 

Compensation: