Researcher, Literacy

AIR is seeking a Researcher with expertise in literacy (e.g., reading, writing, or oral language) education who brings strong experience in both rigorous research and evidence-based technical assistance. The researcher will contribute to multiple literacy research, evaluation, and technical assistance projects. Work may include research partnerships and field initiatives; iterative research and development of literacy interventions; implementation and improvement studies; impact studies using quasi-experimental and experimental designs; and technical assistance efforts that support states, districts, and schools in applying research evidence to policy, practice, and instructional improvement. We seek a professional who can translate complex research findings into clear, actionable guidance for practitioners and system leaders and who will thrive in a fast-paced environment as part of a growing team with ambitious aspirations and evolving needs.

This position has the flexibility to work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of AIR’s U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

About AIR

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Responsibilities

• Serve as project, task, or functional lead and/or subject matter expert for literacy research, evaluation, and technical assistance activities
• Manage project activities, including teams, budgets, and coordination with SEAs, LEAs, and district- and school-level partners
• Develop conceptual frameworks, research designs, and protocols to generate rigorous evidence and inform literacy-related technical assistance
• Apply quantitative, qualitative, and/or mixed-methods approaches to collect, manage, analyze, and report data
• Translate research findings into clear, actionable insights and guidance for educators, districts, state agencies, and other partners
• Contribute to technical assistance activities related to literacy, including development of evidence-based resources and implementation supports
• Prepare client-facing deliverables, including reports, technical memos, briefs, and presentations
• Write and contribute to proposals for federal, state, foundation, and other funders, including research and technical assistance components
• Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, colleagues, and other internal and external stakeholders
• Recruit and manage relationships with research and technical assistance participants and sites
• Mentor and supervise research assistants and associates
• Maintain strong client and partner relationships, serve as a client contact, and support business development by staying abreast of trends and priorities in the literacy field
• Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive work environment aligned with AIR’s mission and values

Qualifications

Education, Knowledge, and Experience

• A Ph.D. or Masters and 4+ years of relevant work experience in literacy education research
• Expertise in literacy education
• Knowledge of federal or state/local policies, programs, and priorities related to literacy education
• Proficiency applying educational, social, or behavioral research methods for implementation research, outcome and impact studies, and/or continuous improvement efforts
• Experience managing and contributing to research and evaluation projects, reports, and products
• Experience working with education stakeholders, such as school districts, educators, or program and professional development providers

Skills

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills including strong communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to produce concise, high-level summaries and briefings
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Passion for bringing rigorous evidence to bear on education policy, practice, and decision-making

Disclosures: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks. AIR maintains a drug-free work environment.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE: If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please send an email to Taliba Boone at [email protected] call 202.403.5000.

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AIR’s Total Rewards Program, is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers the anticipated annual salary as listed. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States.