Senior Education Policy Researcher

RAND•Santa Monica, CA

10d

About The Position

RAND is seeking senior education policy researchers with strong methodological skills to conduct research on high-priority policy problems. We are specifically seeking researchers with expertise in the area of special education. Researchers at RAND work on collaborative and multidisciplinary research teams to solve real-world problems, producing objective, scientific analyses in peer-reviewed journals and technical reports to guide policymakers on a diverse set of issues. Researchers work in multidisciplinary teams that include health policy researchers, economists, natural scientists, epidemiologists, social scientists, and others with relevant training. They apply rigorous, empirical research designs to analyze education policy issues and evaluate programs. Why RAND? · Reputation for Excellence : Be part of a non-profit, non-partisan organization renowned for its rigorous and objective research. · Dynamic Opportunities : Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams on diverse projects that challenge and expand your skills. · Poised for Impact : Your analysis will inform thousands of policymakers, clients, and other stakeholders around the world.

Requirements

Demonstrated training in either quantitative or qualitative research methods
Strong analytic skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Intellectual curiosity and motivation to work to address critical policy challenges
An interest in building a policy research portfolio
The ability to work effectively as a member of inclusive, multidisciplinary teams
A strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity
Applicants must have demonstrated experience in two or more of the following areas: Experimental and quasi-experimental study design, Analyzing qualitative data using coding software, Advanced statistical analysis, such as methods that support causal inference, multi-level modeling, growth modeling, factor analysis, etc., Analysis of secondary data, including longitudinal cohort studies and/or administrative databases, Application of machine learning/artificial intelligence methods
Ph.D. with 8+ years of relevant research experience, or Master's degree with 12+ years of relevant research experience, is required in one of the social sciences or other discipline closely related to the topics outlined in the Position Description above, including education policy, public policy, statistics, economics, or other similar fields.
A record of peer-reviewed publications or research reports consistent with experience is expected.
A CV, cover letter, and peer-reviewed writing sample (pdf documents preferred) are required when applying.
Applicants are asked to submit contact information for 3 references if selected to interview.

Responsibilities

Conceptualize research studies
Obtain extramural funding
Mentor and develop junior staff members
Lead and direct multi-disciplinary teams
Set project standards and monitor progress
Communicate interim and final results to the RAND community as well as to policy-making audiences