Research Data Analyst

Job Description:

The Population Studies and Training Center (PSTC) at Brown University builds scientific understanding of local, national, and global population challenges and their implications for health and well-being. Research at the PSTC is distinguished by its commitment for collaboration across disciplinary and institutional boundaries as well as its strong portfolio of global research. PSTC focuses on demographic research in six main areas: children, families, and health; migration and urbanization; population and environment; demographic change and global development; reproductive health and HIV/AIDS; and social inequalities. Potential applicants are encouraged to consult the PSTC website to learn of research activities, intra-institutional links, and faculty affiliate interests.

The primary purpose will be to work with the research group, Opportunity Insights. The team’s mission is to develop scalable policy solutions that will empower families throughout the United States to rise out of poverty and achieve better life outcomes. This mission is pursued primarily by conducting rigorous, scientific research that harnesses the power of “big data” using an interdisciplinary approach. Much of the team’s ongoing research uses quasi-experimental methods to identify causal effects and test the predictions of economic and sociological models. Current projects study the long-term impacts of neighborhoods, the role of colleges as a pathway to upward mobility, how social networks may affect poverty, and the impacts of historical place-based policies on residents. Results from these projects have appeared in the New York Times and Wall Street Journal and have been widely cited in policy discussions, including the President's State of the Union address.  This position will contribute to the mission by conducting data analysis and statistical development; writing academic papers and preparing presentations; communicating with team members, media and other project relevant partners; gathering and cleaning datasets.

This position is 100% grant funded and is for one year, starting July 1st 2025, with the possibility of renewal for a second year, based on satisfactory work performance and dependent upon funding.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree and 0-3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience as a research assistant, especially quantitatively analyzing big real-time data, strongly preferred.
• Programming experience in Stata, SAS, R and/or Python.
• Strong quantitative skills. 
• Excellent conceptual understanding of economic models and econometric / statistical techniques.
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting a community of diverse perspectives and cultures in an inclusive environment.

Applicants must submit a cover letter and CV/resume.

Why Brown?

Brown University is a leading research university that is distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff are driven by the idea that their work will impact the world.

Brown University offers flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break, and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts, and more. Read more about the benefits of working at Brown here.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Information on the Benefits of Working at Brown can be found here.

Recruiting Start Date:

2025-01-24

Job Posting Title:

Research Data Analyst

Department:

P