Assistant/Associate Research Scientist (Baylor University)

AAIDD; Waco (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

AAIDD is seeking an Assistant or Associate Research Scientist based in Waco, Texas. This role involves leading interdisciplinary research projects at the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing, focusing on the intersection of faith and disability.

The ideal candidate will have a doctoral degree and experience working collaboratively with faculty, churches, and community partners to enhance belonging for individuals with disabilities. This is an in-person position requiring authorization to work in the USA.

Qualifications

• A doctoral degree and three years of relevant work experience are required.
• A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of one another.
• Experience in research related to faith and disability is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and implementation of research initiatives.
• Manage interdisciplinary research teams focused on faith and disability.
• Supervise and mentor research assistants involved in projects.
• Support dissemination through presentations and publications.

Education

Doctoral degree

Job description

Job Title

Assistant/Associate Research Scientist

Location

1214 S 4th Street, Waco, TX, 76706, US

Overview

Baylor University is seeking an Assistant or Associate Research Scientist in the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing. The Research Scientist supports the research and training agenda of the Baylor Collaborative on Faith and Disability, a signature initiative of the Center. The role leads and coordinates interdisciplinary research projects exploring the intersection of faith, disability, and congregational life, collaborating with faculty, churches, and community partners to generate scholarship, develop practical resources, and translate research findings into strategies that strengthen belonging for people with disabilities and their families in local congregations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, coordination, and implementation of research initiatives related to faith and disability, with particular emphasis on quantitative and mixed-methods studies
• Manage large-scale landscape studies and interdisciplinary research teams focused on the Center’s research agenda
• Develop project timelines, coordinate research activities, and ensure effective completion of assigned research initiatives
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate research assistants involved in Collaborative projects
• Coordinate day‑to‑day research activities including study recruitment, data collection, and data management
• Facilitate regular team meetings and collaborative writing groups
• Contribute to the development of peer‑reviewed publications, research reports, briefs, and practical ministry resources that communicate findings from Collaborative initiatives
• Support dissemination through presentations, publications, training materials, and other formats designed for both academic and ministry audiences
• Assist with the preparation of grant proposals, foundation applications, and project reports related to the Collaborative’s research agenda
• Support implementation of a new research fellows program
• Collaborate with faculty and Center leadership to identify funding opportunities and support the development of externally funded research initiatives
• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with churches, ministry leaders, families, nonprofit organizations, and scholars engaged in faith and disability work
• Participate in trainings, events, and community conversations that translate research into practices that advance belonging and inclusion in congregational life
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support the University’s mission
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

Qualifications

A doctoral degree and three years of relevant work experience are required. A doctoral degree and five years of relevant work experience are preferred. A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of one another. Baylor reserves the right to hire into the Assistant or Associate Research Scientist classification. This is an in‑person position based at the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing in Waco, Texas. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis.

EEO Statement

Baylor University, a private not‑for‑profit university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, is committed to compliance with all applicable anti‑discrimination laws, including those regarding age, race, color, sex, national origin, military service, genetic information, and disability. Baylor complies with statutory affirmative action/equal opportunity requirements.