Director of Data Policy and Institutional Research

Director of Data Policy and Institutional Research

Company: Association of American Universities

Job Location: 1200 New York Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC, USA

Category: Institutional Research and Planning

Type: Full-Time

Posted 07-Apr-2026 (EST)

About AAU

Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities (AAU) is composed of America's leading research universities. AAU helps shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation, promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education, and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society.

The Opportunity

AAU is excited to announce an opening for a Director of Data Policy & Institutional Research to lead data-driven analysis that informs AAU's policy positions, advocacy, and communications on behalf of research universities. Reporting to the Vice President for Research and Institutional Policy, the Director provides strategic vision for AAU's research and analytics agenda. The position oversees projects that integrate federal data sources and institutional research to inform policy positions and communications.

Ideal candidates will have a strong record of collaboration across teams and organizations, combined with advanced analytical expertise and exceptional communication skills. The successful candidate will exhibit strong problem-solving, project management, and interpersonal skills, and possess a deep understanding of federal research and higher education policy.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States now, and in the future, without the need for sponsorship.
• By the date of hire, applicants must reside within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in data science, statistics, or related field; master's preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in research or data analysis, ideally in higher education, policy, or non-profit settings.
• Proven ability to analyze and interpret complex data sets and communicate findings clearly to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency with R, SPSS, STATA, and data tools such as SQL; experience with Tableau, Power BI, or R for visualization preferred.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities and experience collaborating across teams.

Compensation

The total compensation package for this role includes:

• A base annual salary ranging from $115,000 -$120,000 (commensurate with experience).
• A robust benefits and perks package, including fully employer-funded medical and dental insurance premiums for employees, their spouse, and qualified dependents; an employer-funded 403(b) retirement account contribution valued at 10% of employee's annual salary with full vestment after one year; a monthly commuter stipend; generous leave options, and more.
• This position operates primarily from AAU's DC office. After completing 90 days of employment, this position is eligible for a hybrid work environment that requires being in the office at least 3 days per week. This position is classified as salaried and exempt.

Applications without all requested materials and information will not be considered.

Qualified individuals with a disability will be provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application process. Please contact us at jobs@aau.edu or call 202-898-7841 to request accommodation.

AAU is committed to a work environment that is inclusive and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status, homeless status, or any other factors prohibited by federal, state, and local law.

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