"Research Scientist - Strengthening Families Research Initiative"

Description

The Strengthening Families Research Initiative is looking for a proactive researcher who seeks to undertake and promote research about the economics of families, including issues related to marriage, fatherhood, fertility, social policy, and child welfare. The Research Scientist will oversee and contribute to a portfolio of research projects, including the development of new surveys. This person will work closely with Professor Melissa Kearney and scholars affiliated with the Initiative.

The Notre Dame Strengthening Families Research Initiative is a new initiative launched in 2025 dedicated to building evidence around the economics of families and ways to strengthen families. The Initiative aims to improve the well-being of children, adults, and communities through rigorous academic research and by engaging stakeholders in the policy and non-profit community to identify and promote policy-relevant evidence. The Initiative is housed in the Notre Dame Department of Economics.

The Research Scientist's top priorities will be:

Data & Research (80%)

• Data management and quantitative analysis (30%)
  • Clean, organize, and construct datasets, ensuring accuracy and consistency
  • Conduct econometric and statistical analyses using Stata, R, or Python
• Survey design and implementation (30%)
  • Collaborate on the design of survey instruments and oversee implementation, data collection protocols, and monitoring
  • Ensure survey quality, reliability, and adherence to best practices
• Academic writing (20%)
  • Contribute to research papers, policy briefs, and presentations.
  • Assist in the composition of key project documents (e.g. grant proposals and reports, pre-analysis plans, research paper drafts, etc.)

Project Management & Administration (20%)

• Coordinate project timelines, milestones, and reporting deadlines
• Coordinate data exchanges between the Initiative and other organizations, as needed
• Supervise and mentor a research assistant and student interns
• Work closely with the Associate Director to improve organization process and build internal capacity

Additional Details:

This is a full-time, in-person position based at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana starting Summer 2026. This is a two year position, with the potential for continued renewal contingent on performance and funding.

Qualifications:

• PhD in economics, demography, or related social science field; MPP with quantitative emphasis or other relevant graduate level training
• Strong knowledge of and experience with research in the quantitative social sciences, as demonstrated by coursework or other channels
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills. Demonstrated ability to interact with faculty, staff, students, and research partners
• Organized and self-directed, with attention to detail and the ability to work on multiple projects independently
• Preferred (but not required): Experience conducting, analyzing, and disseminating surveys in the social sciences

To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/176637