Writer/Editor, Race & Ethnicity Research

Position Summary  

The writer/editor is a position within the Pew Research Center’s Race & Ethnicity research team.  This role is responsible for writing and editing a range of content, from comprehensive research reports to shorter, timely analyses and blog posts, designed to communicate data-driven insights to a broad public audience. This role requires editorial leadership, including providing feedback on analytical structure, tone, and clarity. 

The ideal candidate will have a strong data journalism mindset, with the ability to translate complex quantitative findings into clear, engaging, and nonpartisan narratives. They will be embedded within the research team and work collaboratively to shape the research agenda, including identifying key research questions; contributing to survey development; and identifying and synthesizing findings into accessible and compelling storylines. They will also evaluate drafts of research reports to determine whether there are shortcomings in the analysis and/or organization; edit, rewrite, and reorganize drafts as necessary to improve flow and clarity; and ensure that the text is accompanied by appropriate charts and tables. In addition, they will provide guidance and training to other researchers in the Race and Ethnicity team and serve as a writing resource. Following the release of major reports, they may help present research to the public through interviews, speeches and briefings, adhering to the Center’s non-partisan, non-advocacy stance while building a personal reputation for impartial analysis and expertise on particular topics. 

The writer/editor will demonstrate great care in the use and presentation of data, as well as the ability to publish in a timely manner while ensuring the highest level of accuracy. They will have a demonstrated understanding of research on race and ethnicity in the U.S. and good editorial judgment, as well as a clear, engaging writing style. Candidates with more extensive experience or exceptionally strong qualifications may be considered for appointment at the Senior Writer/Editor level. This position reports to the Managing Director of Race & Ethnicity Research. 

Primary Responsibilities  

Editing and Writing (90%) 

• Writes and edits long-form research reports, as well as shorter analysis based on surveys, demographic research, and other quantitative sources.  

• For some reports, develops an outline and assumes primary responsibility for writing the document, based on survey data, demographic data, focus group data, or secondary data from reputable sources.. For other