Research Associate, Data Scientist

Research Associate

Position Information

Working Position Title
- Research Associate

Classification
- Research Associate

Position Number -

Employee Class
- Staff

Full-Time/Part Time
- Full-Time

FTE - 1.00

Position Status
- Temporary

FLSA
- Exempt

Job code - 1620

SPS
04

Union Representation
- Non-Union

Unit/Department
- Education Systems Center

College/Unit - P20 Initiatives Network

Division
- Outreach Engagemt Regl Dev Dv

Location - LH 204

Overview
- The Center for Early Learning Funding Equity (CELFE) was established to develop and promote research- and data-informed strategies to transform funding of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) programs for children ages 0-5. Housed in Northern Illinois University's Division of Outreach, Engagement, and Regional Development (OERD), CELFE collaborates with academic, data, and research partners across the NIU system through the Research and Data Collaborative (RDC).

Theresa Hawley, Ph.

D., is the Executive Director of CELFE. She brings almost 30 years of experience as a researcher, advocate, and government systems change leader – working to improve ECEC policies with children and families at the center. Now, CELFE is expanding our staff capacity to build on that experience. We are looking for a candidate passionate about early childhood education and care to add to our diverse and skilled team of five.

CELFE is a division of the Division of Outreach, Engagement and Regional Development (OERD) and functions as a stand-alone policy and research center, with minimal support from NIU. As such, we are seeking candidates for the position of Research Specialist who bring strong program support, grants management, communication, and marketing/design experience with knowledge of and passion for early childhood education.

Position Summary
- This position, located in Chicago, will be a hybrid between in-person and remote. The position will be focused on the tracking of business and policy implementation for early childhood funding equity. The position regularly exercises discretion and independent judgment involving complex tasks with appreciable latitude for unreviewed action or decision-making.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Research Activities Independently performs surveys, interviews or uses other methods according to established research and partnership expectations. Determines research activities and literature review based on specialized skill set/knowledge base. Researches available software/datasets that will address research criteria. Coordinates the acquisition of necessary software/datasets. Maintains proficiency/mastery in the use of software/datasets for research purposes. Performs data analysis and documents results. Assists with study protocol development as needed.

Communication Skills Maintains detailed records of results. Summarizes research, testing, and results in written reports. Prepares data for papers, grants and other documents. Completes required documentation for regulatory agencies. Revenue Generation Prepares data, analysis, lit reviews and other materials. Prepares drafts of research proposals for submission to external funders.

Minimum

Required Qualifications (SPS) - BA/BS in social/behavioral science or related field. Five (5) years of related experience. Additional Requirements (SPS) - Demonstrated ability in design software and product development. Interest in being part of a mission-driven organization.

Preferred Qualifications (SPS) - Master's in related field preferred. Knowledge of a second language preferred. Physical demands/requirements
- General office requirements. Long periods of time seated/stationary. Some travel may be required.

Appointment and Compensation Details

Anticipated Appointment Start Date - 09/01/2026

Standard Hours Per Week - 37.50

Working Hours - 8-4:30, one-hour lunch, evenings and weekends as needed

Salary - $50,000.16 - $60,000.00/Annually; NIU offers a robust benefits package.

Application Procedure

For full consideration, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). to submit the following materials by August 5, 2026:
Required Documents:
Cover Letter – Please include your interest in employment with NIU and how your previous experiences position you for success in the role for which you are applying. Current Resume List of Three Professional References Transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable for initial review of application; official copies required to confirm appointment). Applications submitted after August 5, 2026 are welcomed but will be considered as needed.