Education and Policy Research Associate

ABOUT US

The Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE) is dedicated to solving education's greatest challenges. Through rigorous research, model training programs and partnerships with educators worldwide, we're pursuing equitable, accessible and effective learning for all. The GSE is a top-ranked school of education, known for its prestigious faculty, rigorous graduate degree programs, and its impact on the quality of education across the world. The GSE is committed to developing leaders in education research, practice and policy. Our community includes over 60 faculty, 400 students, 230 staff, 14,000 alumni and countless individuals from the local and global communities that we work with and impact.

Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE) is an independent, nonpartisan research center that bridges academic research and education policy in California. Founded in 1983, PACE is a collaboration between Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, and USC. It plays a critical role in providing high-quality research and evidence-based policy recommendations to improve education in California. PACE's unique position as a collaborative effort of leading universities provides it with unparalleled credibility and access to expertise across the state.

The Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE) seeks a full-time researcher to join the team at Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE). This researcher needs an understanding of education policy and how districts implement policies and change practices. The researcher will be responsible for collecting and analyzing qualitative data, analyzing descriptive quantitative data, presenting findings verbally and in writing, and interacting with educators and technical support providers participating in our studies. As a result, successful applicants will most likely have experience as an educator in a public-school setting and either training or some prior experience in research. Strong relational skills will be crucial for success.

This position is a 1-year fixed term appointment based (renewal based on existing funding) on Stanford University's main campus.

Consideration will be given to a hybrid work schedule (partially onsite and offsite work) because the position will require regular travel throughout California. Candidates should submit a CV and cover letter addressing their qualifications and interest in the position.

Applications should be submitted through Stanford University's HR portal.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director of Education Policy and Outcomes at PACE, the researcher will join a small team of policy researchers whose goal is to improve California's educational systems by increasing the use of evidence in California education policy through conducting policy-relevant studies and translating ideas from extant research into accessible language for educational policy- and decision-makers.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Source, collect and analyze data, create reports, review and explain trends; formulate and evaluate alternative solutions and/or recommendations to achieve the goals of the program or function.
• Write and/or edit complex content for proposals, research grants, peer-reviewed publications, and other program activities.
• Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to varied stakeholders for our research and making program improvement recommendations that impact policies and programs.
• Identify, recommend and implement opportunities for new research.
• Contribute to and inform on strategic program planning and related funding and financial sustainability.
• Develop or contribute to outreach strategy related to program communications, development, partnerships, and fundraising/funding.

Additional responsibilities at the Graduate School of Education include:

• Conduct site visits, including observation of educator professional development opportunities, internal district meetings, and/or interviews of policy-makers and educational leaders.
• Present research results to organizational partners, stakeholders, and educational policy-makers.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education and experience

• Bachelor's degree and three years of relevant experience or combination of education, training, and relevant experience. Advanced degree may be required for some programs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to develop program partnerships and funding sources.
• Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills, exhibiting fluency in area of specialization.
• Ability to oversee and direct staff.
• Basic knowledge of managing budgets and developing financial plans.

Desirable qualifications include:

• Experience as a teacher in TK-12th grade and/or experience as a policy analyst.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to translate complex research into accessible and actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.
• Familiarity with the diverse needs of California's student populations, including underserved groups such as English learners, students from low-income communities, and students with disabilities.