Research Associate; Fertility

General Purpose

The Institute for Family Studies (IFS) seeks a Research Associate for the Pronatalism Initiative (P.I.). This role is ideal for someone who likes to tell stories using their own original data-analysis, who cares deeply about healthy family life and higher birth rates, and who enjoys keeping up-to-date on demographic literature. The Research Associate will work closely with the P.I. Director to produce innovative, influential research on our birthrate crisis.

• Manage day-to-day of the P.I. research program, ensuring peerless research quality.
• Analyze survey data and other datasets to identify trends in family dynamics, fertility, and demographics.
• Assist in coding and data processing using tools like Stata (preferred), R, Python, or similar (intermediate skills sufficient, competence troubleshooting using AI-assistance is valuable).
• Produce short-form content, such as articles, summaries, and social media updates, with quick turnaround and clear, engaging writing.
• Support new survey development, including questionnaire design and testing.
• Collaborate with P.I. Director on major research projects.
• Organize and coordinate a small portfolio of P.I. events and activities.
• Research fellow will also be provided opportunities to pursue their own relevant research projects commensurate with qualifications.

We prefer a candidate able to relocate to Charlottesville but will consider fully or partially remote applicants as well; applicant should make clear in application if they would relocate to Charlottesville.

Qualified candidates should submit to Jeanne Thum (info) the following in a single PDF: a.) Cover letter describing fit for role and alignment with mission of IFS; and b.) resume.

See listing at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./jobs

• Demonstrated competence in demography, economics, statistics, or a related field, whether through a degree or prior experience
• Strong interest in working with data, particularly survey data from sources like Census, GSS, or similar
• Basic coding abilities; no need for advanced expertise, though familiarity with data manipulation and visualization is key
• Genuine passion for pronatalism and family-strengthening policies
• Self-starter with strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Good and willing writer