Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Department: Executive Office

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Denver, CO

Compensation: $40,250 - $42,750 / year

The Public Interest Network is hiring a Research Assistant who will work closely with leadership staff to develop our in‑house “think tank,” which is dedicated to re‑orienting America’s political and cultural conversation.

According to a 2020 study in Nature, the combined mass of man‑made things now outweighs all life on Earth. We already produce more food than we can eat and more clothes than we can wear. Our pursuit of limitless economic growth and job creation has profound consequences, including pollution of the environment, the use of toxic chemicals in products—even toys—on store shelves, and a fanatical commitment to keeping people in jobs even if those jobs are dangerous or soul‑crushing or unnecessary.

It’s time to change our thinking and ask big questions, like:

• Why do we still treat economic growth as synonymous with progress, even as its costs overwhelm its benefits?
• What if the real challenge of automation is not job loss, but our inability to imagine a good life beyond traditional employment?

The research assistant will provide support to the think tank team and participate in archiving, research, writing, analysis, communications, and other efforts to further our mission. This position requires excellent judgment, discretion, and the ability to oversee significant projects.

• Identifying and archiving useful resources for writing and research projects.
• Reviewing and drawing conclusions from research and literature across multiple fields including environmental science, public health, history, and economics.
• Assigning, writing and/or promoting reports, reviews, articles and papers.
• Assisting with the development of new media strategies including using social media platforms, podcasts, and other sources to disseminate our research and ideas.
• Attending relevant conferences or retreats with internal staff or external professionals.
• Potential additional projects such as helping to curate a monthly publication or managing an intern program.

• You’re interested in solving new problems and have a strong affinity for our vision of a new politics that faces today’s challenges head on.
• You’re open‑minded and can get your head around complex issues, are willing to have open dialogue about problems, and are okay working with people whose viewpoints may differ.
• You’re smart, detail‑oriented, and organized, and can manage multiple projects.
• You can write; you may have experience writing for publications – at a campus newspaper, writing newsletters and emails for a group you volunteer with, or similar relevant experience.
• You’re creative, able to anticipate or define a problem, brainstorm solutions, propose or decide on a course of action, and follow through. You can think on your feet and respond to unexpected challenges with confidence.
• You’re accountable, respecting goals and deadlines.
• You’re ready to put in the hard work to start from scratch with just an idea and help turn it into a lasting institution.
• Ideal candidates will have 1‑3 years of experience, but entry‑level candidates with a passion for our issues, mission, and values are encouraged to apply.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting target annual compensation for this position is $40,250-$42,750. The Public Interest Network offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long‑term disability insurance, and may include needs‑based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.

Location

Denver, CO

Equal Opportunity Employer

Fund for the Public Interest is an equal‑opportunity employer.