"Research Associate - PEER Center"

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University.

Department: School of Public Affairs

Time Type: Full time

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Description:

The School of Public Affairs at American University is seeking applications for a full-time research associate (who would be appointed at the rank of Research Assistant Professor) to begin in December 2025 or earlier, as possible. The Research Associate will conduct rigorous and timely policy research and analyses to support the work of the Postsecondary Education & Economics Research (PEER) Center. The PEER Center, led by Professors Jordan Matsudaira at SPA and Stephanie Cellini at George Washington University, generates actionable research to promote more equitable outcomes in education beyond high school. The PEER Center also works to train higher education researchers to more effectively engage with and impact state and federal policy. PEER Center staff engage in rigorous research related to postsecondary costs and finance, accountability, value, and student success; and engage in efforts to connect this work directly to the policymaking process.

The Research Associate will engage in rapid-response analysis to inform timely state and federal policy development, as well as having the opportunity to engage in longer-term research. Candidates should have a master’s degree or Ph.D. in economics, public policy, or a related field; at least three years of relevant work experience in federal and/or state higher education policy; and a successful track record of empirical analysis with demonstrated data skills. Familiarity with higher education and workforce data and research (including Stata and/or R), quantitative methods for policy analysis, and strong communication and writing skills are required. An understanding of key legislative and regulatory policy levers and applying academic research to policy problems are a plus.

There is no teaching associated with this position. This is a term faculty, non-tenure track position with the rank of Research Assistant Professor and the title of Research Associate. The initial appointment is for 12 months, and can be renewed annually. The salary range for the research associate position is $70,000-$110,000. The salary for this position will be wholly generated through externally funded research activities. We have a strong preference for candidates willing to work in Washington, D.C., though we will consider applications from qualified researchers located outside D.C.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled, subject to ongoing budgetary approval. Please submit applications via Workday, please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief writing sample (5 pages or less), and the name and contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without advance notice. Please email cmccann@american.edu if you have any questions.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
• American University is an E-Verify employer.