As a Research Associate on the Science and Society team, you’ll study how the public understands and experiences science innovations and issues at the center of societal discussion and debate. We study both timely and evergreen topics like trust in science, artificial intelligence, vaccines, and the STEM workforce.
We’re looking for a seasoned pollster skilled at translating complex concepts into smart, accessible surveys. You understand what it takes to craft methodologically sound survey questions, and you’re energized by digging into the data and finding compelling stories. You'll play a central role in developing questionnaires, analyzing data, creating charts and tables, and helping communicate findings to policymakers, journalists, researchers and the broader public.
The strongest candidates will be pros at survey design and measurement, with the technical skills to analyze data and communicate findings clearly both orally and in writing. They also bring very strong project management skills, with a track record of managing complex workflows and keeping projects on track in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. The Research Associate will work closely with colleagues across research and communications functions, and report to the Director, Science and Society Research.
Primary Responsibilities
Survey design and questionnaire development
Lead development, refinement, and execution of survey questionnaires, from initial concept through fielding
Identify and collate trend questions from external sources and past Center surveys
Conduct advanced analyses of survey datasets and secondary data sources
Interpret data, home in on key findings and patterns, and identify the most compelling stories emerging from the data
Create clear, accessible charts and tables
Writing and other communication
Write research reports and blog posts that distill complex findings for a general audience
Fact-check and number-check all research products
Respond to external and internal requests for information
Contribute to creating digital content featuring research findings
Present research findings to external audiences
Project Management
Map out and manage project plans, timelines, and end-to-end workflows, ensuring projects stay on track and on time
Coordinate multiple workstreams across research, communications, and other functions
Proactively communicate with colleagues to keep them apprised of project status, key decisions, emerging roadblocks, and timelines
Maintain strong knowledge management systems, ensuring project and team documentation is organized, accessible and up to date
As needed, coordinate with outside vendors, including overseeing development of contracts
Education/Training/Experience
BA required, advanced degree preferred; degree in the social sciences such as sociology, political science, or related field.
5-9 years of research experience, with at least 3-5 years of specialized survey research and analysis experience expected. Often includes significant graduate training in statistics and research methods, or equivalent experience in an applied setting.
Demonstrated expertise with survey development, including question writing
Proven ability to conduct rigorous data analysis, including substantial experience with statistical software, preferably R
Familiarity and experience with a range of statistical techniques, including multiple regression analysis
Training or experience in attitudinal, behavioral or demographic research related to social, economic or political change
Experience managing complex research projects, including working collaboratively with colleagues across functions
Knowledge and Skill Requirements
Strong background in creating and analyzing general-population surveys
Excellent quantitative skills, including an ability to use SPSS and other statistical programs to organize and analyze large amounts of data
Attention to detail, including exacting standards to maintain accuracy and impartiality in all work products
Editorial judgment and proven ability to communicate research results clearly and concisely for general audiences, both orally and in writing
Demonstrated exceptionally strong project management skills
Ability to work collaboratively and collegially with other team members, as well as with staff from other Pew Research Center research teams and functions
Ability to balance multiple projects and meet tight deadlines while ensuring accuracy in data management, fact checking and research
FLSA Status: Exempt
Compensation: The typical starting salary for this position is $95,370 annually.
Location:
This position is based in Washington, DC. The Center operates in a hybrid model, meaning that staff are expected to work in the office at least 3 days/week, and can work from home up to 2 days/week.
Application Procedure:
Applicants should use the link above to apply online. Please include a resume and cover letter indicating your relevant research experiences and where you learned of the opening.
Total Rewards
In addition to competitive pay, Pew Research Center’s employees enjoy a robust total rewards package that includes:
Affordable, comprehensive health care that includes medical, dental (including adult orthodontia) and vision benefits.
Generous paid annual leave plan, including a winter break between Dec. 25 and Jan. 1
Employer-paid disability, life insurance and paid family leave plans
Up to a 12% employer 401(k) contribution, with vesting at the end of the first year.
A 37.5-hour workweek.
Health savings or flexible spending account options with employer funding component.
Flexibility to telework a portion of each week, with an additional four telework “flex weeks” each year for most staff.
EEO:
Pew Research Center makes employment decisions without regard to age, sex, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, military/veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. We encourage applications from candidates who represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in social sciences (BA)
- Advanced degree in social sciences or related field
- 5-9 years of research experience
- 3-5 years of specialized survey research and analysis experience
- Expertise in survey development and question writing
- Substantial experience with statistical software and data analysis
- Experience with R
- Experience using SPSS and other statistical programs
- Familiarity with multiple regression and a range of statistical techniques
- Proven ability to manage complex research projects and workflows
- Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to write reports and present findings
- Attention to detail, fact-checking, and editorial judgment
- Ability to coordinate with outside vendors and oversee contract development as needed
What We Do
The Pew Charitable Trusts is an independent nonprofit organization founded in 1948, dedicated to serving the public interest by improving public policy, informing the public, and invigorating civic life through research and data-driven strategies.
