Senior Research Scientist (Problem Gambling)

Education Development Center • Waltham, MA

1d • $103,000 - $140,000 • Remote

About The Position

EDC seeks a Senior Research Scientist to lead and expand a growing portfolio of work on problem gambling and related behavioral health issues. In this role, the Senior Research Scientist will design and direct rigorous research and evaluation studies; build partnerships with community, governmental, and philanthropic organizations; translate findings into practice and policy; and cultivate and secure external funding to sustain and grow this body of work over time. This is a Part-Time (50%) benefits eligible position. The person in this role will report to the Distinguished Scholar for EDC’s Be Well Transformation Area. A strong candidate is currently under consideration.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree (e.g., PhD, ScD, DrPH, or equivalent) in public health, psychology, epidemiology, social/behavioral sciences, or a related field.
• Deep content expertise in problem gambling and/or closely related areas (e.g., gambling disorder, addictions, behavioral health prevention).
• Demonstrated success serving as Principal Investigator or Co-PI on research, evaluation, or technical assistance projects.
• Strong record of externally funded work, including experience leading or substantially contributing to competitive proposals.
• Advanced skills in quantitative research methods (e.g., experimental/quasi-experimental designs, longitudinal analysis, multilevel modeling) and data management.
• Proven ability to conceptualize, design, and execute complex, multi-site or multi-method projects.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to translate technical findings for policymakers, practitioners, and community audiences.
• Substantial record of peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations relevant to behavioral health, problem gambling, or other risk behaviors.
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• A cover letter with a brief outline of your experience administering benefit programs is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and grow EDC’s portfolio of research, evaluation, and prevention initiatives focused on problem gambling and related behavioral health issues.
• Serve as Principal Investigator on multiple, complex projects, providing scientific and strategic direction from design through dissemination.
• Provide leadership in quantitative research methods, including study design, advanced analytics, and interpretation of findings.
• Oversee data collection, management, and validation processes to ensure rigor, quality, and reliability.
• Conceptualize and write competitive proposals (or major sections), including research, evaluation, and technical assistance projects that expand this body of work.
• Lead business development efforts by identifying funding opportunities, cultivating relationships with funders, and shaping a long-term growth strategy for the problem gambling portfolio.
• Produce high-quality written products, including reports, manuscripts, briefs, and other complex materials for diverse audiences.
• Develop and deliver high-visibility presentations at conferences, briefings, and stakeholder meetings; contribute actively to peer-reviewed publications.
• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with government agencies, community and professional organizations, and university collaborators to strengthen the field.
• Mentor and guide project teams, fostering constructive feedback, building capacity, and promoting high standards for quality and compliance.
• Oversee key administrative and logistical aspects of the portfolio and troubleshoot complex implementation challenges to ensure successful delivery.
• May travel nationally or internationally.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid holidays
• Generous vacation benefits for full- and part-time employees
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Pre-tax transport benefit
• Robust retirement plan with TIAA/CREF (Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association/College Retirement Equities Fund)
• Paid sick time and personal time annually
• Parental leave
• Employee assistance program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree