[Hiring] Research Fellow @IDRA

Role Description

IDRA is seeking a talented research fellow to provide cross-functional support to IDRA’s research and evaluation team by delivering timely analytical products that support the work of IDRA and its various projects.

• Collect data from a variety of sources.
• Manipulate, organize, clean, and cross-check data.
• Prepare reports and present data to key stakeholders.
• Participate in strategy discussions and research team meetings.
• Contribute to advocacy, outreach, or education practice work.
• Assist with administrative or project coordination tasks.
• Demonstrate technical proficiency in research development and statistical analysis.

Qualifications

• Commit to a full-time fellowship starting September 2026 and ending August 2027.
• Have earned a degree in a quantitative field such as economics, social sciences, statistics, public policy, business administration, or a related field.
• Be able to travel to conduct multi-day site visits at higher education institutions in the continental United States and U.S. territories (approximately one to two visits per month).
• Have an interest in learning multiple facets of evaluation, including data analysis and research and on-the-ground site visits.
• Possess a strong ability to learn new concepts and tools quickly.
• Demonstrate excellent writing skills for various purposes and audiences.
• Be willing to teach and share knowledge and skills with students, families, IDRA staff and fellows, and other partners.
• Possess a commitment to building relationships with young people, families, teachers, and other public education and higher education advocates.
• Be committed to expanding access to excellent pre-K-12 and to college access and completion opportunities for all students, particularly students of color, immigrant students, students from families with limited incomes, and other historically marginalized groups.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, including engaging with stakeholders from a range of backgrounds, such as partners from federal agencies, higher education, K-12, and non-profit organizations.

Requirements

• Graduate degree, Ph.D. preferred (or five years of experience working in a related field).
• Proven knowledge and application of research methods and assessment practices.
• Strong technical and data analytical skills.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience in data collection and statistical reporting.
• Proficiency with statistical software, such as MS Excel, R (Posit), and/or Dedoose.
• Experience with survey tools, such as Qualtrics and/or Survey Monkey.
• Experience with quantitative and qualitative research.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of education data sets (Texas Education Agency, U.S. Department of Education, American Community Survey, Census Summary Files).
• Experience working with confidential information within established guidelines.

Benefits

• Salary is $75,000 or higher, commensurate with experience.
• Contribution toward medical insurance.

Application Process

To apply, submit the following:

• Completed application form
• Cover letter
• Curriculum vita or resumé
• Contact information for two professional references

Application deadline: September 18, 2026

IDRA’s research fellowship is open to all eligible applicants regardless of race, national origin, religion, gender, age, ability, or sexual orientation.