Principal Researcher, Healthcare Transformation

American Institutes for Research; Austin (TX); Remote; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

American Institutes for Research seeks a Principal Researcher for the Healthcare Transformation team. The role leads complex studies, serves as a principal investigator, and shapes research strategy while mentoring staff and developing proposals.

Responsibilities include managing data collection and analysis, translating findings for policymakers, and cultivating relationships with clients and funders across sectors. This is a national remote opportunity within the United States.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in public health, public policy, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant work experience if holding a Ph.D.; or 11+ years with a Master’s degree.
• Experience leading research projects in contract research, evaluation, or academia.
• Strong publication, funding, and multi-stakeholder project management track record.
• Experience with qualitative and quantitative methods and related software.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and execution of complex, multi-method studies.
• Serve as principal investigator or senior advisor on high-profile projects.
• Shape research strategy by identifying trends, funding opportunities, and innovation areas.
• Guide teams in study designs, analytic plans, and dissemination strategies.
• Cultivate relationships with clients, funders, and partners.
• Provide thought leadership through publications and presentations.
• Mentor senior researchers and project staff.
• Lead proposal development, including strategy and client engagement.
• Oversee data collection and analyses with ethical standards.
• Translate findings into actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Communication

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Equity in research

Education

Ph.D. in public health or public policy

Master's degree + 11 years' experience

Tools

STATA

R

NVivo

Excel

Job description

Join AIR as a Principal Researcher with our Healthcare Transformation team. Our team works collaboratively to unravel the intertwined challenges of health care quality, costs, and access. Our team of experts - nurses, physicians, psychologists, economists, sociologists, data scientists, and public health experts - advance evidence and save lives by leading rigorous research and evaluation; results-driven technical assistance and training; and leading-edge data science and technology tools.

This position has the flexibility to work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

Position is contingent upon contract award.

About AIR

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, non‑for‑profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of complex, multi-method research studies across AIR's client services portfolio.
• Serve as principal investigator or senior advisor on high-profile projects, ensuring methodological rigor, relevance, and impact.
• Shape AIR's research strategy by identifying emerging trends, funding opportunities, and areas for innovation.
• Guide multidisciplinary teams in developing study designs, analytic plans, and dissemination strategies.
• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with clients, funders, and partners across sectors.
• Provide thought leadership through publications, presentations, and participation in national forums.
• Mentor and develop senior researchers and project staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning.
• Lead proposal development efforts, including strategy, writing, and client engagement.
• Oversee data collection and analysis activities, ensuring alignment with research goals and ethical standards.
• Translate complex findings into actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and community stakeholders.

Qualifications

Education, Knowledge, and Experience

• Ph.D. in public health, public policy, or a related field, with a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience managing and conducting research, or Master's degree and at least 11 years of relevant experience.
• Extensive experience leading research projects in contract research, evaluation, or academic settings.
• Deep understanding of implementation science and systems-level change.
• Proven track record of securing funding and managing large-scale, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Experience with both qualitative and quantitative methodologies and associated software (e.g., STATA, R, NVivo, Excel).
• Established reputation and professional network in relevant fields.

Skills

• Strategic thinker with the ability to align research with policy and practice needs.
• Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to synthesize and present complex findings to varied audiences.
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Advanced project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and relationship-building.
• Commitment to equity, rigor, and innovation in research.

Disclosures

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law, including, but not limited to, actual or perceived race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braid, locs, and twists), creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition (e.g., cancer), sex, gender, gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, civil union status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, genetic information, or military or veteran status. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks. AIR maintains a drug-free work environment.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please send an email to Taliba Boone [e-mail] call 202.403.5000.

Total Rewards Program

AIR's Total Rewards Program, is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers the anticipated annual salary as listed. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States.

Anticipated Annual Salary Range

$140,000 — $180,000 USD