Applied Research Associate – Public Policy

Mississippi State University; Starkville (MS); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University’s John C. Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development seeks a research analyst to assist with applied research, data analytics, and program evaluation across Mississippi and the Southeast.

Under supervision, you will design and implement projects, collect and analyze data, develop reports, dashboards, and grant deliverables, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to advance public service initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, Community Development, Urban and Regional Planning, Sociology, Economics, Geography, Data Analytics, or a related field.
• Rank and salary commensurate with education and/or experience.
• Master's degree preferred in related fields.
• Experience with research methods, data collection, analytical techniques, program evaluation, or related areas.
• Experience with statistical analysis, GIS applications, survey research, data visualization tools, or related analytical software is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of applied research projects.
• Collect, manage, analyze, and interpret data using established research methodologies.
• Develop technical reports, white papers, briefing materials, presentations, grant reports, dashboards, and other project deliverables.
• Support strategic planning initiatives, community assessments, organizational assessments, and program evaluation activities.
• Assist with implementation and administration of grant-funded projects, including documentation, performance measurement, monitoring activities, and reporting requirements.

Skills

Research methods

Data analysis

Policy analysis

Report writing

Project management

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

Data visualization tools

Job description

Mississippi State University’s John C. Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development seeks a research analyst to assist with applied research, data analytics, and program evaluation across Mississippi and the Southeast.

Under supervision, you will design and implement projects, collect and analyze data, develop reports, dashboards, and grant deliverables, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to advance public service initiatives.