Research Scientist II

Western Governors University • Salt Lake City, UT

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Scientist II plays a critical role in WGU Academy’s culture of data-driven continuous improvement. This role is ideal for a curious, skeptical, and technically skilled researcher who thrives on asking strong questions, validating ideas with evidence, and translating insights into action. As a Research Scientist II, you will collaborate closely with teammates and internal clients, and contribute research that directly informs decision-making and innovation across the Academy.

Requirements

• Ability to independently define, design, and conduct original scientific research
• Strong data manipulation skills using programming languages such as SQL and Python
• Data visualization experience using tools such as Python and Tableau
• Expertise in qualitative and quantitative primary research methods
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional research teams
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills
• Exceptional ability to translate complex research findings for both lay and scholarly audiences
• Strong attention to detail with pride and ownership over research quality and outcomes

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in education technology or a related field
• UX testing experience
• Master’s degree in a related field such as Social Sciences, Marketing, Statistics, or a closely related discipline
• Education may substitute for years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute research projects, aligned with Academy goals and initiatives
• Select and apply appropriate research methodologies such as implementation studies, qualitative research, secondary data analysis, quasi-experimental designs, and randomized controlled trials
• Collect, combine, and clean data from multiple sources to ensure accuracy and usability
• Analyze data using statistical software and advanced quantitative and qualitative techniques
• Design, deploy, and analyze surveys using tools such as Qualtrics
• Produce high-quality, client-facing reports and presentations that clearly communicate findings and recommendations
• Represent WGU Academy by presenting research at relevant conferences and company gatherings

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision, telehealth and mental healthcare
• health savings account and flexible spending account
• basic and voluntary life insurance
• disability coverage
• accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity supplemental coverages
• legal and identity theft coverage
• retirement savings plan
• wellbeing program
• discounted WGU tuition
• flexible paid time off for rest and relaxation with no need for accrual
• flexible paid sick time with no need for accrual
• 11 paid holidays
• other paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level