Senior Research Associate, Student Parent Success Initiative

Job Description
WE ARE

The Institute for Women's Policy Research (IWPR) is the nation's preeminent think tank committed to achieving economic equity for women and eliminating structural and institutional barriers to women's full participation in the workforce and society.

IWPR's mission is to build knowledge and evidence to support policies that help grow women's economic power and influence in society, close inequality gaps, and improve the economic security and well-being of girls, women, and families. We generate the ideas that build power and economic equity for all women.

The Student Parent Success Initiative (SPSI) at the Institute for Women's Policy Research raises awareness of college students who are parents of young children-70 percent of whom are mothers-and identifies and shares the strategies that can promote their postsecondary success. Through a combination of original research and collaborative field-building efforts, SPSI works to advance bold ideas and policy solutions and reveal both the challenges and promise represented by parents seeking a postsecondary education.

Statement on Racial Equity and Intersectionality

At IWPR, we believe social and economic mobility in the United States is determined and influenced by race, ethnicity, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, and other markers of difference. In working to achieve economic equity and to better understand the experiences of all women in the workforce and in society, we use both racial equity and intersectional frameworks in our research and analysis to help generate strategies and solutions that are grounded in the economic realities of women and families.

We also prioritize building an inclusive and welcoming work environment that values the diverse perspectives and experiences of staff in its research and efforts to improve gender and racial equity.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Duties and Responsibilities:

Research Strategy, Vision, and Leadership

• Help develop and implement a cohesive research and policy program focused on higher education access, equity, and success for student parents;
• Identify and assess emerging research gaps in the field and potential innovations and opportunities for IWPR; and
• Represent IWPR at high-level convenings, conferences and meetings.

Research and Policy Work

• Perform data analysis of large datasets and trends, including creating data visuals; developing, programming, and fielding online surveys; and conducting interviews and focus groups;
• Conduct research and/or policy analysis on issues related to higher education equity, access, and success; child care and early childhood education; human services programs; women's and family economic security; and two-generation solutions;
• Use and integrate racial equity and intersectional frameworks and analysis in research study designs, written reports, and briefs;
• Lead research project on advancing equity in attainment for Black single mothers in college;
• Work with communications staff to initiate policy campaigns and efforts on key issues and priorities; and
• Write high quality working papers, reports, and presentations.

Program Management

• Strong program and project management skills, and ability to manage multiple deadlines and competing demands;
• Work with Study Director to fundraise and manage donor relationships including writing proposals and grant reports;
• Help coordinate research content and report releases with the other IWPR programs and units.

Other Professional and Personal Qualities

• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including presentation skills;
• Superior problem-solving, managerial, and interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work strategically and collaboratively across the organization;
• Effective, versatile, and action oriented; and
• Ability to work well under pressure with tight deadlines and multiple priorities.
• Demonstrated commitment to IWPR's mission and vison, including IWPR's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Education and Experience

Ph.D. in a relevant social science field, such as public policy, economics, higher education, or sociology, or Master's degree with equivalent experience.

Salary

This is an on-site, full-time exempt position. This position is a Researcher IIIa position in IWPR's compensation program. The salary for the Senior Research Associate, Student Parent Success Initiative is $85,000 to $95,000 and will be commensurate with experience. To learn more about the IWPR compensation program and role structures, please click HERE. IWPR provides competitive salaries and a generous benefits package.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit a resume, writing sample, and thoughtful, relevant cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. IWPR is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

Vaccine Policy: IWPR has made the safety of our staff and our surrounding community a top priority. As part of that commitment, IWPR recently implemented a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. This policy states that all IWPR employees, interns, fellows, (i.e.- IWPR staff) are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and to receive a booster shot. IWPR will require selected candidates to submit proof of complete vaccination against COVID-19 and having received a booster shot prior to extending a job offer. If a candidate has a qualifying medical condition that contraindicates a Covid-19 vaccination, a medical exemption form should be requested from Human Resources.

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