Applied Research Analyst

Milliman • Eden Prairie, MN

120d • $93,700 - $185,400 • Remote

About The Position

MARA's team is seeking a creative and rigorous applied research analyst who is passionate about healthcare analytics and translating data into insight. Unlike traditional statisticians, this role focuses less on building models and more on: Exploring new features and attributes that could enhance our models, Tackling data-intensive, complex client questions, and Designing and authoring high-quality white papers and research collateral that support client engagement and shape the conversation around healthcare and risk adjustment. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives at the intersection of data, research, and communication. You'll be part of a collaborative, entrepreneurial team where curiosity is celebrated and your work directly influences MARA's products and reputation in the marketplace.

Requirements

• PhD in Health Services Research, Economics, Statistics, Public Health, or related field.
• 3+ years of applied research/analytics experience in healthcare, payer, policy, or academic settings.
• Strong command of statistical/econometric methods and ability to choose the right approach for the question.
• Proficiency in one or more analytic tools (e.g., SAS, R, SQL, Python).
• Demonstrated experience writing for publication (white papers, peer-reviewed journals, or industry reports).
• Skilled in presenting technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work both independently and in team environments.

Nice To Haves

• Deep understanding of U.S. healthcare and payer markets, including Medicare Advantage and risk adjustment.
• Prior experience creating proof-of-concept studies or evaluating predictive models.
• Experience influencing or advising healthcare professionals through data-driven insights.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects using large healthcare datasets to evaluate potential model enhancements and new analytic features.
• Perform advanced quantitative analysis (e.g., causal inference, econometric modeling, predictive analytics) to address challenging client and industry questions.
• Translate findings into clear, compelling narratives for white papers, client deliverables, and published research.
• Collaborate with R D colleagues to scope and test proof-of-concept features for MARA models.
• Serve as a subject-matter expert to internal teams, bridging technical analysis with strategic business questions.
• Present research and insights to internal and external audiences, including clients, conferences, and publications.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision - Coverage for employees, dependents, and domestic partners.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.
• 401(k) Plan - Includes a company matching program and profit-sharing contributions.
• Discretionary Bonus Program - Recognizing employee contributions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - Pre-tax savings for dependent care, transportation, and eligible medical expenses.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) - Begins accruing on the first day of work. Full-time employees accrue 15 days per year, and employees working less than full-time accrue PTO on a prorated basis.
• Holidays - A minimum of 10 paid holidays per year.
• Family Building Benefits - Includes adoption and fertility assistance.
• Paid Parental Leave - Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for employees who meet eligibility criteria.
• Life Insurance & AD&D - 100% of premiums covered by Milliman.
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability - Fully paid by Milliman.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree