Assistant Research Economist AF7744

Oklahoma State University; Stillwater (OK); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Oklahoma State University in Stillwater seeks a Research Economist to lead a portfolio of applied research. The role covers two phases: county-level analyses of agricultural water usage this fall and resilience studies post-COVID, with later work on trade patterns using Census data.

Responsibilities include independent analysis, clear written reporting, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. PhD required; 3+ years experience; start date flexible; salary $75,000–$85,000 plus commensurate

Qualifications

• Ph.D./Ed.D. in Economics, Public Policy, or related field (degree conferred on or before start date).
• 3+ years of experience in policy research, analysis, or related roles.
• Post-secondary education beyond requirements may substitute for years of required experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of applied research across two-phase studies.
• Analyze county-level agricultural data and food system resilience.
• Prepare clear written reports and present findings to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across the university.

Skills

Quantitative methods

Qualitative methods

Data analysis

Written communication

Verbal communication

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D./Ed.D. in Economics, Public Policy, or related field

Ph.D./Ed.D. in Agricultural Economics

Job description

Campus

OSU-Stillwater

Contact Name & Email

John Schoenman, [e-mail]

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm with occasional evenings and weekends.

Appointment Length

Regular Continuous/Until Further Notice

Hiring Range

$75000 - $85000

Commensurate with education and experience

Priority Application Date

While applications will be accepted until a successful candidate has been hired, interested parties are encouraged to submit their materials by 2026-11-13 to ensure full consideration.

About This Position

The Research Economist will contribute a portfolio of applied research. The research program proceeds in two phases. In the first phase (Sep - Feb 2027), the research teams will complete county-level network analyses of agricultural water usage and an assessment of food system resilience following COVID-19. In the second phase (March 2027 to February 2029), the research team will undertake a series of studies examining county-level agricultural trade patterns, leveraging the U.S. Census Bureau's Longitudinal Firm Trade Transactions Database (LFTTD) and the Plant-Level Export Transactions (PLEXT) data built from it to investigate topics including but not limited to food miles, regional trade flows, and other dimensions of agricultural commerce.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D./Ed.D. Economics, Public Policy, or related field. (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)
• At least 3 years of experience in policy research, analysis, or related roles.

Additional post-secondary education beyond requirements may substitute for years of required experience.

Skills, Proficiencies, And/or Knowledge

• Demonstrated expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Strong analytical skills, including proficiency in data analysis and interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D./Ed.D. PhD in Agricultural Economics
• At least 5 years of experience in policy research, analysis, or related roles.

Skills, Proficiencies, And/or Knowledge

• Track record of publications or presentations on agricultural economics
• Leadership experience, including project management and team coordination