Senior Research Associate, Pell Institute for the Study of Opportunity in Higher Education

Overview:

In collaboration with the Director of Pell, the Senior Research Associate will provide co-leadership for the Institute, support ongoing projects, and play a lead role in developing and completing research agendas. Pell research agendas are co-developed by COE leadership, the Director of Pell, and the Pell team. Each research agenda will focus on supporting first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students and students with disabilities’ college access and success. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong project management and research skills to manage multiple projects.

This position requires the ability to design and implement research projects from conceptualization to reporting and presenting results. It requires proficiency with quantitative analytical tools, knowledge of research methodology, strong communication skills, and a solid commitment to and affinity for delivering the highest level of research.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of ongoing research projects within the Pell Institute
• Take a lead role in designing, completing, and presenting research projects focusing on building capacity within the TRIO community for collaborative, participatory, and empowerment systems and action research.
• Support preparation of grant applications and support the Director with working with potential funders in developing ideas and concepts for new projects
• Support the Evaluation, Research, and Data Use Community of Practice (COP)
• Conduct data analysis and other evidence-based interventions to improve practice
• Research new data sources and analytical tools that may be helpful to Pell in achieving research goals
• Mentor and support junior analyst at COE and practitioner partner analysts at TRIO grantee sites

Position Requirements:

• Ph.D. or EdD in a related field
• Three to five years of experience in research related to low-income, first-generation, underrepresented students or students with disabilities, including demonstrated proficiency with quantitative research methods (Descriptive Research, Correlational Research, Causal-comparative/quasi-experimental research, and Experimental Research)
• Hands-on practitioner work or collaboration with practitioners in the fields of college access and success
• Strong communication skills, both written and spoken
• Skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with college access and success communities
• Ability to travel as needed
• Grant writing and management experience

Application Process:

Please submit your application by noon, Friday, January 28, 2022. Submit your application material by email to: alvin.phillips@coenet.org using “Pell Senior Research Associate – [Your Full Name]” as the subject of your email. This position is in Washington, D.C., and is not remote.

The application materials should include:

• Cover letter with qualifications, interest, and availability
• Current Resume/CV
• Three references with current contact information
• Links to example(s) of applicable written materials

This description describes the general nature and level of work for individuals assigned to this classification. Examples of duties or responsibilities are not an exhaustive list describing the duties or responsibilities required of personnel so classified. COE does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, or veteran status. The Council for Opportunity in Education is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all federal and District of Columbia laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding employment.