Research Scientist, Mixed Methods Specialization

Job Description: • Assist in the design and management of comprehensive, high-quality mixed-methods STEM education evaluations and implementation research that align with SSPI’s mission, strategic goals, and commitment to equitable science learning. • Co-lead, partner, and/or support the various phases of program evaluation and research, including study design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, reporting, and scaling across diverse educational contexts. • Provide methodological leadership for the qualitative and mixed-methods components of ongoing and new research projects, including case studies, thematic analysis, and content analysis that deepen understanding of program implementation and impact. • Support the establishment and management of project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring efficient use of resources and long-term sustainability while maximizing learning and impact. • Co-author evaluation reports and scholarly and practitioner-facing publications on selected projects, translating rigorous research findings into accessible, actionable insights for funders, educators, and policymakers. • Collaborate with educators, researchers, and industry experts to design and implement evaluations, including developing interview and focus group protocols and conducting interviews, focus groups, and observations with varied stakeholders. • Contribute to identifying and analyzing emerging trends in STEM education evaluation, assessment, workforce needs, and community interests to inform strategic decision-making and identify opportunities for new initiatives. • Conduct needs assessments to identify gaps in SSPI’s current offerings and opportunities for new or expanded program evaluations and research efforts. • Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness using quantitative and qualitative data, applying findings to continuous improvement and future program design. • Work closely with the program operations and marketing teams to ensure evaluation findings inform program refinement, storytelling, and outreach strategies. • Prepare and present clear, compelling reports and briefings to management, staff, funders, and other key stakeholders. • Collaborate with the External Affairs team on aspects of grant proposals and in developing marketing and communication strategies that credibly convey evaluation design, findings, and impact to philanthropic and federal/state audiences. • Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, media opportunities, and community events as a knowledgeable representative and emerging thought leader in reform-oriented and equity-centered science education and evaluation. • Performs other duties as assigned. Requirements: • Ph.D. in Education, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field (PhD preferred) • 0–3 years of post-graduate experience in mixed-methods program evaluation or education research, ideally conducted alongside randomized controlled trials and/or quasi-experimental designs • Demonstrated experience designing and leading qualitative research, including interviews, focus groups, observations, and qualitative analysis in educational settings • Strong background in building partnerships and engaging with educators, researchers, and community stakeholders • Strong understanding of current trends in STEM and science education reform, including equity-focused and NGSS-aligned approaches Benefits: • Travel required: Approximately 15-20 days per year Apply tot his job Apply To this Job