Senior Education Policy Researcher

Job Type: Regular

RAND is seeking senior education policy researchers with strong methodological skills to conduct research on high-priority policy problems. We are specifically seeking researchers with expertise in the area of special education. Researchers at RAND work on collaborative and multidisciplinary research teams to solve real-world problems, producing objective, scientific analyses in peer-reviewed journals and technical reports to guide policymakers on a diverse set of issues.

Researchers work in multidisciplinary teams that include health policy researchers, economists, natural scientists, epidemiologists, social scientists, and others with relevant training. They apply rigorous, empirical research designs to analyze education policy issues and evaluate programs.

• Reputation for Excellence:
  Be part of a non-profit, non-partisan organization renowned for its rigorous and objective research.
• Dynamic Opportunities:
  Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams on diverse projects that challenge and expand your skills.
• Poised for Impact:
  Your analysis will inform thousands of policymakers, clients, and other stakeholders around the world.

All research positions require:

• Demonstrated training in either quantitative or qualitative research methods
• Strong analytic skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Intellectual curiosity and motivation to work to address critical policy challenges
• An interest in building a policy research portfolio
• The ability to work effectively as a member of inclusive, multidisciplinary teams
• A strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity

Applicants must have demonstrated experience in two or more of the following areas:

• Experimental and quasi-experimental study design
• Analyzing qualitative data using coding software
• Advanced statistical analysis, such as methods that support causal inference, multi-level modeling, growth modeling, factor analysis, etc.
• Analysis of secondary data, including longitudinal cohort studies and/or administrative databases
• Application of machine learning/artificial intelligence methods

In addition, this position requires a demonstrated ability to conceptualize research studies, obtain extramural funding, mentor and develop junior staff members, lead and direct multi-disciplinary teams, set project standards and monitor progress, and communicate interim and final results to the RAND community as well as to policy-making audiences.

Ph.D. with 8+ years of relevant research experience, or Master's degree with 12+ years of relevant research experience, is required in one of the social sciences or other discipline closely related to the topics outlined in the Position Description above, including education policy, public policy, statistics, economics, or other similar fields.

A record of peer-reviewed publications or research reports consistent with experience is expected.

Santa Monica, CA;
Pittsburgh, PA;
Washington, DC; or Boston, MA

• A CV, cover letter, and peer-reviewed writing sample (pdf documents preferred) are required when applying.
• References:
  Applicants are asked to submit contact information for 3 references if selected to interview.

$167,300 - $261,400

Hiring ranges for Economists, Management Scientists and Physician Researchers are slightly higher than the ranges shown.

RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate's work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND's sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more.

Review of applications will be ongoing through March 2, 2026.

Equal Opportunity Employer