Research Associate, Research Scientist, Research Analyst

Position Summary

The Baker Institute is seeking a Research Associate (RA) to support energy policy research in the institute’s Center for Energy Studies (CES). The RA assists in conducting research, collecting data, performing statistical analysis, proofreading, and drafting articles, reports, and other publications. In addition, the RA may assist in intermediate administrative functions.

The ideal candidate is a detail‑oriented and analytical professional with strong technical expertise in data visualization and statistical analysis, complemented by excellent communication skills and the ability to translate complex data into clear, impactful insights.

This position is exclusively on‑site, necessitating all duties to be performed in‑person on campus. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

$60,000 per year.

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Two or more (2+) years related research experience
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on a year‑for‑year basis.

• Proficiency in Tableau and/or PowerBI
• Knowledge of Python or R
• Experience with Census data, shape files, geodatabases, and geoprocessing tools
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including Excel
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong analytical and research skills
• Ability to build reports
• Excellent presentation skills

• Master’s degree
• Related work experience in energy economics and/or policy studies

• Participate in the planning and implementation of research projects and data analysis
• Extract data for current and new GIS dashboards
• Use Excel and statistical software to compile and analyze data
• Report and discuss research findings
  
  Ensure information presented is valid and accurate
• Develop presentations and reports
• Participate in staff meetings
• Perform other assigned duties

• May supervise student interns
• Write conference reports/summaries for Baker Institute events
• Coordinate and implement proofreading of research‑related documents
• Assist with preparing presentation materials for CES fellows and scholars

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in touch with Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada for support.