Strategic Data Project Fellow (Fall ''26 - Summer ''28)

The Association for Education Finance and Policy; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Association for Education Finance and Policy is seeking a Strategic Data Project Fellow for a two-year program in Cambridge, MA, starting in Fall 2026. This position offers hands-on experience in education data analysis and a chance to develop skills through mentorship and workshops.

Applicants must have a Master's degree completed by August 2026, with at least four years of relevant experience. The fellowship combines project work and professional training to prepare fellows for advanced roles in education policy.

Qualifications

• Strong background in applied quantitative analysis and familiarity with large education datasets.
• Passionate about improving education outcomes for all students.
• Proven ability to communicate complex information effectively.

Responsibilities

• Support project work focused on education data analysis and evaluation.
• Participate in professional development and mentorship by experienced professionals.
• Engage in workshops to develop leadership and education policy skills.

Skills

Applied quantitative analysis

Communication of complex information

Data visualization

Survey design and analysis

Collaboration

Education

Master's degree or higher

Job description

Strategic Data Project Fellow (Fall ''26 - Summer ''28)

Organization: Strategic Data Project

Location: Cambridge, MA, United States

Salary: $75,000 - $95,000

Posting Start Date: 6/9/2026

Date Posted: 6/9/2026

Job Overview

The Strategic Data Project (SDP) Fellowship offers a mid-to-senior level education data analyst/researcher position at an SDP-approved partner organization. Fellows receive full-time employment and a two-year program of in-person and virtual professional development, training, and mentorship by Harvard-affiliated researchers and practitioners. The fellowship combines hands-on project work with tailored workshops to develop measurement, leadership, communication, and education policy skills.

Eligible Locations

Placements are available in Texas; Denver, CO; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA; Trenton, NJ; and the Northern Virginia/ DC Metro Area. Applicants should either currently reside in one of these locations or be willing to relocate.

Focus Areas

• program evaluation
• early warning indicator systems
• survey design and analysis
• student pathways and postsecondary success
• educator quality, pipeline, and training
• data visualization
• data management governance
• data dashboards

Requirements

• a strong background in applied quantitative analysis (beyond descriptive analysis), familiarity with large education datasets, and ability to work with limited oversight
• a demonstrated passion for improving outcomes for all students, familiarity with U.S. domestic education policy and current issues
• a track record of collaboration, humility, and ability to guide change
• a proven ability to communicate complex information and analytic findings to various audiences in verbal, written, and visual formats
• evidence of an emerging leadership skillset and a commitment to continuous learning
• a advanced degree (Master’s degree or higher) completed (graduated) by August 2026 (certificates are not eligible)
• at least four years of relevant full-time work experience by August 2026 (waived for those with a PhD)
• legal authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis without restriction for the entire fellowship period (September 2026 – August 2028)

SDP and partner organizations cannot provide visa sponsorship for fellows. Applicants must meet the hiring requirements of their partner agency.