Senior Education Research Leader — Federal Programs & Impact

National Opinion Research Center - NORC

Washington (District of Columbia)

Hybrid

USD 171,000 - 183,000

Full time

7 days ago

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Job summary

NORC at the University of Chicago seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Education and Child Development to lead large-scale evaluation and technical assistance work, shaping education policy impact with rigorous methods and stakeholder engagement.

The role requires a PhD, 12+ years in senior research management, and strong leadership for diverse, dispersed teams. Hybrid work in Chicago or DC with security-clearance prerequisites applies; U.S. citizenship is required.

Qualifications

PhD or Doctorate preferred with a Master's required in education/related field
Minimum 12 years in a significant management role in nonprofits/government
Proven ability to build and retain research teams
Demonstrated expert education knowledge via publications/presentations
Experience leading large-scale research or technical assistance projects
Strong connections to major education clients
US citizenship due to security clearance requirements

Responsibilities

Lead business development with federal and state governments, large school districts, foundations, universities, commercial partners
Lead major research and/or technical assistance projects
Advance creative analytic solutions and problem solving
Foster professional growth of ECD staff
Support a cohesive, team-oriented culture across a geographically dispersed staff
Develop and maintain client relationships
Develop and maintain partnerships with other research organizations and research leaders