Research Associate, Market Research, Research Analyst

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world‑changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

The John

F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting‑edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match.

When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The Shorenstein Center seeks a full‑time Research Associate to support the Independent Media + Audience Project, which focuses on social media audiences, journalism, and content creators. The Research Associate will write regular reports about the project’s analysis of You Tube and podcast platforms; will assist in building and maintaining structured research datasets; and contribute to analysis of platform ecosystems.

The role supports a multidisciplinary research team in developing and refining quantitative research questions. The position requires strong communication skills to translate complex research findings into clear, engaging, and accessible language for non‑specialist audiences.

This role bridges the gap between academic research and public understanding, ensuring that key insights are communicated accurately and effectively to a broader audience.

It includes participation in regular research meetings, engagement with academic and civil society partners, and contribution to joint publications.

• Review and analyze academic research papers, reports, and datasets across media studies.
• Translate technical findings into concise, plain‑language summaries for general audiences.
• Collaborate with researchers, faculty, and stakeholders to ensure accuracy and clarity of content.
• Conduct interviews with independent media creators, journalists, technologists, and social scientists.
• Develop a variety of materials including lay summaries, briefs, blog posts, and public‑facing reports.
• Collaborate on data visualization of technical findings.
• Ensure all communications maintain the integrity of the original research.
• Support dissemination efforts through digital platforms, presentations, and outreach initiatives.

Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of experience in research roles. Relevant internships will count toward experience. Demonstrated ability to interpret and summarize complex academic material.

• Master’s degree in computer science, data science, information science, or a related field.
• Proficiency in Python and R.
• Experience with social media analysis and basic database management.
• Familiarity with academic publishing and research methodologies.
• Familiarity with using LLMs in research settings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong emphasis on plain‑language writing.
• Experience in science communication, knowledge translation, or public engagement is highly desirable.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy while simplifying content.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across disciplinary boundaries.
• Familiarity with You Tube, podcast platforms, or digital media ecosystems.
• Interest in data visualization.
• Ability to write social media posts conveying research findings.

• Appointment End Date:
  This is a fully benefits‑eligible one year term appointment, with the possibility of renewal.
• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  35 hours per week.
• Visa Sponsorship Information:
  Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre‑Employment Screening:
  Identity, Education.
• Other Information:
  Remote work flexibility may be…