Research Scientist

Sam Houston State University; Huntsville (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Sam Houston State University is seeking a full-time Research Scientist at the Homeland Security Institute. This role involves leading assessment strategies, designing evaluation tools, and conducting research focused on Critical Infrastructure Protection.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. and has experience in project management and research. Strong communication skills are essential for presenting findings and engaging stakeholders. This position offers an opportunity to impact evidence-based practices in critical sectors.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. with emphasis in policy or assessment research.
• Two years of research or teaching experience in a related field.
• Experience in project management in Critical Infrastructure sectors preferred.

Responsibilities

• Leads development and implementation of assessment strategies.
• Designs and maintains assessment tools for professional development.
• Conducts research to evaluate program effectiveness.

Skills

Project management

Research methods

Statistical analyses

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in public policy, political science, education or related field

Job description

Requisition

202600166S

Title

Research Scientist

FLSA status

Exempt

Hiring Salary

This position is a pay grade 13. Please see Pay Grade Table at: https://pa-hrsuite-production.s3.amazonaws.com/116/docs/550174.pdf.

Occupational Category

Professional

Department

Homeland Security Institute

Division

Division of Academic Affairs

Open Date

06/08/2026

Open Until Filled

Yes

Educational and Experience Requirement

Ph.D. in public policy, political science, education or related field with emphasis in policy or assessment research. Two years of research, teaching, or experience in a related field. Knowledge and skill in applying principles and practices of project management, basic and applied research methods, and related fields of operations preferred. Experience in a project management role in a company or government agency in a related Critical Infrastructure (CI) sector is preferred: Transportation, Energy, Chemical or Healthcare. A combination of education, experience, and training that would produce the required knowledge and abilities could be considered.

Nature & Purpose of Position

Performs specific duties pertaining to research activities, special projects, and/or educational programs at the Institute for Homeland Security (IHS), with a focus on Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) programs.

Primary Responsibilities

Leads the development and implementation of assessment strategies for Institute for Homeland Security (IHS) programming across Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) sectors. Designs and maintains practical, repeatable assessment tools to evaluate professional development and training offerings, ensuring consistency between program delivery and evaluation practices. Performs research in an area of considerable scope and complexity. Coordinates closely with IHS personnel delivering programming to ensure assessments are implemented as intended and aligned with program objectives. Works to standardize assessment practices across offerings and supports the integration of evaluation into routine program operations. Develops and manages databases to support assessment activities and conducts statistical analyses as needed to evaluate program effectiveness. Synthesizes findings into clear, actionable outputs, including reports, summaries, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders. Serves as a primary point of contact for assessment and evidence-based practices, including presenting results at seminars, symposiums, and other events to support dissemination and stakeholder engagement. Supports external grant activities as needed, particularly in relation to evaluation and impact measurement. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Specifications

Supports the development of evidence-based strategies, policies, and procedures by ensuring that IHS programming is systematically assessed and aligned with intended outcomes. Requires independent judgment and initiative in developing practical, field-ready assessment approaches and supporting continuous program improvement. Demonstrates the ability to independently manage assessment and evaluation activities requiring discretion, judgment, and attention to detail. Must be highly self-motivated and capable of coordinating across internal teams and external partners, including faculty, staff, university departments, government agencies, and industry stakeholders. Strong communication skills are required, particularly the ability to translate assessment findings into clear, practical insights for diverse audiences.

Full Time Part Time

Full Time

EEO Statement

Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.