Sr. Social Scientist

Battelle•Columbus, OH

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency. We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply. Job Summary At Battelle, you will work alongside globally recognized experts on multidisciplinary teams tackling complex, real-world problems. We offer the opportunity to conduct mission-driven research, expand your professional impact, and contribute to solutions that make a meaningful difference. Battelle is seeking a Social Scientist IV to lead high-impact research addressing some of today’s most pressing societal, technological, and national security challenges. This role is ideal for an experienced social scientist who enjoys translating complex data into actionable insights, collaborating across disciplines, and driving research that informs real-world decision-making. In this role, you will apply advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods across the social sciences to study human, organizational, and societal dynamics. You will design and lead research projects, mentor junior staff, and partner closely with internal and external clients to deliver rigorous, policy-relevant insights across domains such as national security, energy, environment, health, and public policy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, OR Master’s degree in a related field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, OR PhD in a related field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.
Demonstrated experience designing and leading social science research projects.
Strong experience applying qualitative and/or quantitative research methods.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience delivering results to clients or stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Applies multidisciplinary social science skills, compliance, knowledge, and project management experience to design research studies
Determines the appropriate analysis methods, identifies problems, and develops and implements solutions to complex problems.
Conducts, designs and/or leads social science research and applies quantitative and qualitative theories, methods, and techniques across social sciences to analyze human, organizational and social phenomena and to address emerging and prevailing societal issues concerning energy, environment, technological innovation, health and human safety, national defense and security, and public policy.
Areas of research include sociology, psychology, behavioral science, computational social science, economics, political science, human geography, demography, anthropology, history, linguistics, and law.
Lead and design complex qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research studies across a range of social science disciplines.
Analyze complex datasets to identify trends, risks, and opportunities, and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendations for clients.
Prepare and deliver high-quality technical reports, briefings, and presentations for diverse audiences, including senior stakeholders.
Provide technical leadership on research projects and major project phases, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
Mentor and provide day-to-day guidance to junior researchers and research support staff.
Develop and apply innovative research methods and analytical approaches to address emerging challenges.
Contribute to proposal development, including writing technical sections and shaping research approaches.
Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, government sponsors, and external partners.
Support business development and internal research initiatives (IR&D), helping identify and pursue new research opportunities.
Represent Battelle at scientific conferences, peer review panels, and professional forums through presentations and publications.