IRiSS Predoctoral Researcher

The Stanford Institute for Research in the Social Sciences (IRiSS) is seeking Predoctoral Researchers to participate in our 2026-2027 cohort. The Predoctoral Researchers will work under general supervision of individual faculty in one of the following social science departments: communication, economics, political science, psychology, or sociology. Please see the "How to Apply" section below. The complete list of faculty mentors and Predoctoral Researcher projects for 2026-27 can be found on the program's website.

Predoctoral Researchers are in a staff category allowing them to enroll in one course per year for credit.

This is an 100% FTE 1-year fixed-term non-exempt position, with the possibility of renewal for a second year. The extension is based on renewed funding of the program and individual circumstances of each faculty project. The start date is September 14, 2026. This position will be based on the Stanford campus.

Project Description:

Yiqing Xu, AI-Native Research in Chinese Politics and Quantitative Methods
We invite applications for a full-time predoctoral researcher to join an AI-native research lab at IRiSS. The researcher may specialize in either quantitative methods or Chinese politics. The lab develops empirical research and methodological work in causal inference and panel data, supported by a large set of curated datasets and AI-driven research infrastructure.

The position is designed for candidates planning to pursue a PhD in political science, economics, statistics, computer science, or a related field.

On the quantitative methods track, the fellow will contribute to AI workflow development and evaluation, support large-scale replication and reproducibility projects, and improve research efficiency through scalable, automated pipelines.

On the Chinese politics track, the fellow will contribute to publishable research on contemporary political and economic topics, drawing on extensive existing datasets and new data collection. Chinese reading proficiency is required.

What You Will Learn

During the year, the predoc will gain experience in publishable empirical research, AI-integrated workflows, research software development, and methodological work in causal inference and panel data. The position emphasizes building scalable, AI-assisted research pipelines that enhance efficiency and reproducibility.

Ideal candidates should have strong quantitative training and programming skills in R or Python. Familiarity with version control and reproducible research practices (e.g., through GitHub) is a must. A strong background in mathematics, statistics, or computer science is preferred. Candidates must demonstrate advanced ability to use modern AI tools for coding, data analysis, and research workflows. Applicants are strongly encouraged to include links to GitHub repositories, project portfolios, or demos in their CV or personal statement, or attaching a writing sample.

CORE DUTIES:

• Participating in the planning and performing/conducting research tasks by applying basic knowledge and understanding of scientific theory using precedents or other published guidelines and knowledge of theory and methods when specific precedents do not exist. General instruction provided by the supervisor or principal investigator. May interpret study results in collaboration with supervisor or PI.
• Participate in the development and administration of survey instruments and rating scales requiring judgment in applying non-routine procedures or methods. Analyze and summarize results for review with supervisor. Audit the accuracy and validity of data
• Review and audit case report forms for completion and accuracy with source documents and ensure compliance with research protocols.
• Identify, select, extract and summarize data and structured information. Present summary of findings to supervisor.
• Conduct literature searches, and write literature summaries and manuscripts, requiring preliminary judgments after the supervisor outlines conceptual approach.
• Build and organize data as requested by principal investigator or supervisor; use common statistical programs requiring the application of job control language in generating and organizing data.
• Adapt new, nonstandard methods outlined by supervisor in designing and evaluating phases of research projects, (i.e., educational materials, questionnaires, strategies for recruitment, data quality control procedures and processes). May follow up with to ensure approvals and completion, seeking guidance where necessary.
• Assist with development, communication and design of research findings to internal and external audiences, which may include web updates, social media, and/or white papers, for use in recruitment, educational, or awareness of programs, with guidance from supervisor.

* Other duties may also be assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree in an applicable life science, social science, physical science, or similar specific discipline. Degree must be received or expected no later than June 2026.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• General understanding of scientific theory and methods, typically gained through completion of an undergraduate degree in a related field.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with study participants.

In addition, preferred requirements include:

• The ability to work independently and as a member of a research team
• The ability to take initiative and see projects through to completion
• Interest in and enthusiasm for pursuing graduate studies or a career in social science research

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

HOW TO APPLY:

Please ensure the file names of uploaded documents include your name: e.g. "LASTNAME_FIRSTNAME_CV.pdf."

We invite you to apply for this position by clicking on the "Apply for Job" button. Submit the following via the Stanford Careers website:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV, or resume), including the names and contact information for 2 recommenders
• College transcript(s)
• Cover letter
• Optional writing sample
• Optional background information. IRiSS is committed to building a diverse and inclusive research community. We actively recruit and mentor researchers who bring a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to our academic disciplines and strengthen our ideas. If you would like to share additional information about your background, perspectives, or experiences, please attach it as a separate document.
• Please ensure your contact information is entered correctly in the application form.