Research and Community Specialist

About Rice:
Boasting a 300-acre, tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally, and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, courses, and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff, and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. These values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice's culture. They are reflected in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name -- RICE -- Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence.

Position Summary:

The Research and Community Specialist in the Department of Sociology at Rice University (http://sociology.rice.edu) will work with Dr. Elaine Howard Ecklund and Dr. Jenifer Batter, Professors of Sociology, on projects studying religion, race and science, and mentoring, as well as the development of a community outreach program for undergraduates related to building bridges with the Houston community. The position duration is two years, beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2028, and includes a salary and full benefits. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Inquiries may be directed to Dr. Elaine Howard Ecklund; email: ehe@rice.edu.

Workplace Requirements:
Hybrid position: This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. The department currently allows one to two remote days per week after the probationary period. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Salary: $45,000 annually

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.*

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in social sciences, including sociology, geography, statistics, political science, public policy, as well as data science, computer science, computational science, and/or another related field
  • Experience may not be substituted for the education requirement
• Minimum of 1+ year of coursework or research experience in the social science field, such as sociology, geography, statistics, political science, public policy, or related fields

Skills:

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks
• Ability to work in a team environment, participate actively, collaborate, and motivate others in the group
• Attention to detail and high standards for work quality
• Listening, verbal and written communication, analytical, and research skills
• Strong scientific and numerical skills with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy

Preferences:

• Master's degree in social sciences, including sociology, geography, statistics, political science, public policy, as well as data science, computer science, computational science, and/or another related field
• Experience with data management and analysis in an academic context
• Social science research experience using quantitative or computational methods
• Project management experience
• Strong writing skills
• Qualitative research skills
• Ability to manage and mentor undergraduate students
• Background research related to book and article manuscripts

Essential Functions:

• Conducts specialized and collaborative research
• Collects, organizes, and processes data through the use of spreadsheets and databases
• Communicates results through verbal presentations and written reports in conjunction with the PI
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions:

• Assists in planning and conducting research projects
• Assists with project management