Senior Research Scientist – State Health Evaluation and Applied Health Economics

JOB SUMMARY:

NORC at the University of Chicago seeks a Senior Research Scientist to support and lead state health policy evaluation, health services research, and applied health economics projects for state and federal government clients. The successful candidate will bring experience conducting program evaluations, quantitative policy analyses, or health services research using Medicaid data, state administrative data, survey data, and other health-related data sources.

They will contribute to evaluations of state health policy initiatives, including Medicaid programs, behavioral health initiatives, payment reforms, delivery system transformations, rural health programs, and other public-sector health programs. The ideal candidate combines strong technical skills with the ability to work independently, manage project responsibilities, communicate effectively with clients, contribute to proposal development, and translate analytic findings into clear policy-relevant insights.

We are seeking a proactive researcher who is comfortable taking ownership of projects and proposals, working in fast-paced environments, and helping grow NORC's portfolio of state health policy evaluation work. This position resides within NORC's Applied Health Care Economics Program Area in the Health Care Evaluation Research Department (see program area and department descriptions below). This position is intended to be filled at the Senior Research Scientist level.

Candidates with substantial experience leading complex evaluations, managing client relationships, and directing proposal efforts may be considered for appointment at the Principal Research Scientist level.

Location:

This is a hybrid role based in either our Chicago Loop or Washington, DC office, with a minimum of six days per month in the office. Remote work status may be considered for outstanding candidates. Qualified applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S. We regret that we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. DEPARTMENT:
Health Care Evaluation Research NORC's Health Care Evaluation Research Department conducts rigorous evaluations, implementation studies, health services research, and policy analyses for federal agencies, state governments, foundations, health systems, and other health care stakeholders. Applied Health Care Economics Program Area The Applied Health Care Economics Program Area leads research and evaluation activities that examine how health care programs, payment models, financing mechanisms, and policy interventions affect patients, providers, payers, and health systems.

Core areas of work include Medicaid and Medicare policy, payment and delivery system reform, managed care, behavioral health, long-term services and supports, health equity, and evaluation of large-scale public programs and demonstrations. RESPONSIBILITIES:
Research and Technical Leadership Lead evaluations of state and federal health policy initiatives, payment reforms, delivery system transformation efforts, rural health initiatives, and other public-sector health programs. Design and implement rigorous evaluation strategies and analytic approaches. Lead analyses using Medicaid administrative data including T-MSIS, TAF, and state Medicaid claims and encounter data. Lead development of specifications for analytic files, attribution methodologies, quality measures, risk adjustment approaches, utilization measures, spending analyses, and evaluation metrics.

Translate complex policy and programmatic questions into rigorous evaluation strategies and actionable findings for policymakers and other stakeholders. Project Leadership Lead major project tasks and work streams. Manage project schedules, budgets, deliverables, and client communications. Present findings to clients and stakeholders. Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams and ensure timely delivery of high-quality products. Identify and address project challenges, competing priorities, and operational risks while maintaining strong client relationships and project performance.

Staff Development and Mentorship Mentor and support the development of research scientists, analysts, economists, and data scientists. Contribute to recruitment, training, and professional development activities. Help foster a collaborative, solutions-oriented culture that emphasizes quality, accountability, professional growth, and client service. Business Development and Portfolio Growth Lead and contribute to proposal development activities, including technical approach development, staffing plans, budget development, proposal writing, and coordination of multidisciplinary proposal teams.

Support client engagement and relationship-building activities with state agencies, federal agencies, foundations, and other health policy stakeholders. Contribute to growth of NORC's state health policy evaluation portfolio. Identify emerging evaluation opportunities and help position NORC for future work through technical expertise, client…