Research Associate IV - Data Strategy

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Research Associate IV for Data Strategy in Athens, GA. This senior-level role involves leading data governance initiatives, conducting applied research, and providing strategic consultation.

Qualified candidates will have a terminal degree and extensive experience in data strategy and analytics. Key responsibilities include developing training and supporting organizational improvements. This position offers a dynamic work environment and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 8 years of professional experience, including 5 years of formal post-degree work.
• Experience in enterprise data strategy or governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead data strategy and governance initiatives.
• Develop training on data strategy for organizational leaders.
• Support collaborative projects in organizational effectiveness.

Skills

Data strategy

Data governance

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Cloud-based technologies

Education

Terminal degree in a related discipline

Terminal degree in data science or related field

Tools

Analytics platforms

Reporting tools

Job description

Research Associate IV – Data Strategy

Posting Number: S15333P | Department: PSO-Carl Vinson Institute of Government | Employment Type: Employee | Work Schedule: M-F, 8‑5. Occasional after‑hours may be required. Location: Athens, GA. Proposed Starting Date: 08/01/2026. Open until filled.

Position Summary

This senior‑level position supports the Institute’s growing portfolio of data strategy, governance, organizational improvement, and applied research initiatives for higher education, government, and public sector partners. As an accomplished researcher, you will conduct applied research and technical assistance activities, serve as a senior collaborator or co‑investigator on funded projects, and provide strategic consultation and technical assistance related to enterprise data strategy, organizational data management, analytics, governance practices, and operational effectiveness.

Minimum Qualifications

• Terminal degree in a related discipline and 8 years of professional experience, including 5 years of formal post‑degree work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Terminal degree in data science, analytics, information systems, public administration, business, organizational development, statistics, engineering, geography, or a related field.
• Experience leading or supporting enterprise data strategy, governance, analytics, organizational improvement, or data management initiatives within complex organizations.
• Experience developing and delivering professional training, facilitation, or technical assistance programs for organizational leaders or working professionals.
• Experience working with cloud‑based data environments, analytics platforms, reporting tools, or organizational data systems.
• Experience collaborating with executive leadership, cross‑functional teams, or external stakeholders within higher education, government, nonprofit, or public sector environments.
• Experience managing or supporting externally funded projects, contracts, or technical assistance initiatives is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Data Initiatives & Technical Assistance – Lead and support data strategy, governance, organizational improvement, and technical assistance initiatives for higher education, government, and public sector partners. (60%)
• Training, Facilitation & Professional Development – Develop and deliver training, facilitation, and professional development programs related to data strategy, governance, and organizational effectiveness. (15%)
• Organizational Consulting & Collaborative Support – Support Institute technical assistance initiatives and collaborative projects related to strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, performance improvement, and operational consulting services. (10%)
• Partner Engagement & Business Development Support – Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with campus partners, external organizations, professional networks, and stakeholder groups to support project success, partnership development, and ongoing client engagement. (10%)
• Professional Knowledge & Innovation – Remain current on emerging trends, technologies, and best practices related to data strategy, governance, analytics, organizational effectiveness, and public sector innovation. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of enterprise data strategy, data governance, organizational data management, data quality, privacy, lifecycle management, and data‑informed decision‑making practices.
• Ability to assess organizational needs, identify opportunities for strategic and operational improvement, and translate those needs into strategic and technical recommendations using data and analytics.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, including evaluating complex issues, assessing risks and dependencies, and developing practical solutions.
• Knowledge of analytics, reporting, data visualization, data systems, cloud‑based technologies, analytics platforms, and emerging technologies that support organizational effectiveness and decision‑making.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with technical professionals, organizational leadership, and cross‑functional stakeholders; manage multiple projects and priorities; exercise independent judgment; and develop and deliver training, facilitation, and technical assistance programs.

Physical Demands

Office work, prolonged sitting, computer work, lifting up to 25 lb. Day trips with overnight stays may be required. Travel estimated to be about 20 %.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR at [e-mail].