Research Associate - Science and Engineering Education and Workforce

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine value diversity in our members, volunteers, and staff and strive for a culture of inclusion in our workplace and activities. Convening a diverse community to exchange ideas and perspectives enhances the quality of our work and increases our relevance as advisers to the nation about the most complex issues facing the nation and the world.

Requisition Number: R0002813

The Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST), fuels innovation across physical sciences, engineering, education, and policy to advance the nation’s future prosperity and resilience. Our work prepares and supports the U.S. workforce to strengthen American competitiveness and security.

The Science and Engineering Education and Workforce (SEEW) program area advances evidence-based approaches to education, workforce development, and public engagement for people of all ages across all STEM-related fields. Our work leverages research and best practice related to teaching, learning, mentoring, communication, and institutional and systemic change.

The Research Associate for SEEW, develops pertinent background research to support a greater understanding of conditions, issues, and trends impacting assigned programs, projects, subjects, and topics. Performs research and analysis and drafts background papers. Prepares preliminary outlines of projects to determine appropriate methodology, which may include developing a historical perspective; identifying prevailing social and economic conditions and international involvement in issues;

and assessing future trends and implications.

Documents and establishes files on analyses performed and prepares data for use in summaries, fact sheets, and reports. Edits report material developed by committee members, senior staff, and consultants. Manages related databases, including reference databases. Responds to inquiries about program activities and supports increased public awareness of these activities. May assist with administrative duties related to programs and projects.

Applying general professional-level knowledge and principles of research, performs duties requiring the identification and analysis of various factors and the use of independent judgment and discretion to recommend the best course of action. Proceeds on own initiative in compliance with established policies, procedures, and practices, seeking guidance or expertise from a supervisor or higher-level staff when needed. May lead and/or supervise lower-level support employees.

1. Research, Analysis, and Methodology

• Prepares preliminary outlines of projects to determine appropriate methodology.
• Performs research and analysis, analyzing and organizing technical data and reports and compiling summaries of information.
• Analyzes data developed and prepares written interpretations.
• Synthesizes data for specific sections of reports or other types of output.
• May perform basic research and analysis.

• Prepares and formats various survey instruments and databases to accept specified information.
• Verifies references and checks facts of committee reports.

2. Technical Writing, Reports, and Program Materials

• Writes technical papers or summaries.
• Abstracts information from reports, expert assessments, and other source materials to create overviews for committee review or use in committee reports.
• Drafts, summarizes, and edits findings and provides feedback to appropriate parties.
• Prepares program materials for review and dissemination and assists with review response.
• Ensures edits are included in program materials.
• Creates bibliographies, graphics, and tables for program materials.

3. Data, References, and Records Management

• Manages and maintains…