Research Associate

Position Summary/Description:

The Research Associate will apply systems science methods to support communities in understanding, navigating, and driving change within complex public health and social systems. This position will focus on building, refining, and applying causal loop diagrams and related system dynamics tools in partnership with community members, subject-matter experts, and cross-sector stakeholders.

The Research Associate will facilitate participatory systems processes, translate complex systems insights into accessible products, contribute to scholarly and applied publications, and support capacity-building efforts that enable communities to use systems tools to strengthen collaboration and inform action.

Education and Experience:

• Prior work in public health, social services, behavioral health, or other complex human systems
• Comfort working in ambiguity, iteration, and evolving project environment

Essential Skills:

• Formal training in system dynamics (e.g., causal loop diagramming, group model building, simulation modeling) 
• Demonstrated experience developing and interpreting causal loop diagrams 
• Proficiency using system dynamics software (either Vensim or Stella)
• Experience applying system dynamics or systems thinking in community-based or participatory contexts Strong facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences 
• Excellent written skills, including experience contributing to reports or publications 
• Ability to work collaboratively while managing independent analytical work

AA/EEO Statement:

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.