Research Associate - PEER Center

Research Associate The School of Public Affairs (SPA) at American University is seeking applications for a full-time Research Associate to begin in December 2026 or as soon as possible. The Research Associate will conduct rigorous and timely policy research and analyses to support the work of the Postsecondary Education & Economics Research (PEER) Center. The PEER Center generates actionable research to promote more equitable outcomes in education beyond high school. The PEER Center also works to train higher education researchers to more effectively engage with and impact state and federal policy. PEER Center staff engage in research related to postsecondary costs, accountability, value, and student success; and engage in efforts to connect this work directly to the policymaking process. The Research Associate will engage in rapid-response analysis to inform timely state and federal policy development, as well as having the opportunity to participate in longer-term research. Candidates should have a master's degree in economics, public policy, data science, or a related field; and a successful track record of empirical analysis with demonstrated data skills. Familiarity with quantitative methods for policy analysis, higher education and workforce data and research (including Stata and/or R), and strong communication and writing skills are required. An understanding of key legislative and regulatory policy levers and applying academic research to policy problems, and relevant work experience in federal and/or state higher education policy, are a plus. There is no teaching associated with this position. This is a term faculty, non-tenure track position with the rank of Research Assistant Professor and the title of Research Associate. The initial appointment is for 12 months, beginning on or around December 1, 2026, and can be renewed annually, subject to external funding. The salary range for the research associate position is $70,000-$95,000. The salary for this position will be wholly generated through externally funded research activities. This position is primarily in-person in Washington, D.C.Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled, subject to ongoing budgetary approval. Please submit applications via Workday, please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief writing sample (5 pages or less), and the name and contact information for three professional references. References will not be contacted without advance notice. Please email peercenter@american.edu if you have any questions.