Remote Policy Scientist - Homelessness & Health Research

University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA); Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) seeks a mid- to advanced-career Researcher (Project Scientist) to design and conduct policy-relevant homelessness and health research in partnership with state/local agencies in California. You will leverage linked administrative data and supervise junior staff.

The role emphasizes causal inference, managing data pipelines, writing for policy and academic audiences, and grant-writing activities. Remote or hybrid work options available.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in economics, public policy, statistics, or related social science field.
• Knowledge of homelessness or health policy.
• Econometric methods for causal inference, esp. quasi-experimental design.
• Programming for statistical analysis (Stata, R, Python, SAS, or SQL).
• Experience with large health datasets (Medicaid or similar).
• Ability to write for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of data management systems and standards.
• Ability to multi-task with demanding timeframes.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quantitative research; design and implement analysis plans; manage data lifecycle; ensure quality assurance and replication documentation.
• Annually publish multiple reports and policy briefs.
• Apply multiple research designs including RCTs and quasi-experimental methods; perform descriptive and correlational analyses.
• Lead research teams; write proposals; ensure timely completion of tasks.
• Supervise research staff; manage hiring, promotions, and professional development.
• Collaborate with state/local agencies to build a shared research agenda.

Education

Ph.D. in economics, public policy, statistics, or related social science

Job description

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) seeks a mid- to advanced-career Researcher (Project Scientist) to design and conduct policy-relevant homelessness and health research in partnership with state/local agencies in California. You will leverage linked administrative data and supervise junior staff.

The role emphasizes causal inference, managing data pipelines, writing for policy and academic audiences, and grant-writing activities. Remote or hybrid work options available.