Research Associate

Job Description

The Shorenstein Center seeks a full-time Research Associate to support the Independent Media + Audience Project, which focuses on social media audiences, journalism, and content creators. The Research Associate will write regular reports about the project’s analysis of YouTube and podcast platforms; will assist in building and maintaining structured research datasets; and contribute to analysis of platform ecosystems.

The role supports a multidisciplinary research team in developing and refining quantitative research questions. The position requires strong communication skills to translate complex research findings into clear, engaging, and accessible language for non-specialist audiences.

This role bridges the gap between academic research and public understanding, ensuring that key insights are communicated accurately and effectively to a broader audience.

It includes participation in regular research meetings, engagement with academic and civil society partners, and contribution to joint publications.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Review and analyze academic research papers, reports, and datasets across media studies.
• Translate technical findings into concise, plain-language summaries for general audiences.
• Collaborate with researchers, faculty, and stakeholders to ensure accuracy and clarity of content.
• Conduct interviews with independent media creators, journalists, technologists, and social scientists
• Develop a variety of materials including lay summaries, briefs, blog posts, and public-facing reports.
• Collaborate on data visualization of technical findings
• Ensure all communications maintain the integrity of the original research
• Support dissemination efforts through digital platforms, presentations, and outreach initiatives.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree and at least three years of experience in research roles. Relevant internships will count toward experience. Demonstrated ability to interpret and summarize complex academic material.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Master's degree in computer science, data science, information science, or a related field.
• Proficiency in Python and R.
• Experience with social media analysis and basic database management.
• Familiarity with academic publishing and research methodologies.
• Familiarity with using LLMs in research settings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong emphasis on plain-language writing.
• Experience in science communication, knowledge translation, or public engagement is highly desirable.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy while simplifying content.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across disciplinary boundaries
• Familiarity with YouTube, podcast platforms, or digital media ecosystems.
• Interest in data visualization.
• Ability to write social media posts conveying research findings.