Research Associate
Washington, DC
Full Time
Mid Level
Research Associate
WE ARE:
The Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) is the nation’s preeminent think tank committed to achieving economic equity for women and eliminating structural and institutional barriers to women’s full participation in the workforce and society.
IWPR’s mission is to build knowledge and evidence to support policies that help grow women’s economic power and influence in society, close inequality gaps, and improve the economic security and well-being of girls, women, and families. We generate the ideas that build power and economic equity for all women.
Statement on Racial Equity and Intersectionality
At IWPR, we believe social and economic mobility in the United States is determined and influenced by race, ethnicity, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, and other markers of difference. In working to achieve economic equity and to better understand the experiences of all women in the workforce and in society, we use both racial equity and intersectional frameworks in our research and analysis to help generate strategies and solutions that are grounded in the economic realities of women and families. We also prioritize building an inclusive and welcoming work environment that values the diverse perspectives and experiences of all staff.
Statement on Inclusivity and non-discrimination
IWPR is an equal opportunity employer. We value and support difference, diversity, and inclusion in our hiring and employment practices. We do not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, marital or veteran status, age, or any other legally protected status.
JOB DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW:
The Research Associate is a position on IWPR’s Research Team conducting research, including quantitative and qualitative empirical analysis, on issues related to IWPR’s core topics of Equitable Work and Wages, Caregiving and Families, Education and Career Advancement, and Reproductive Justice and Health Equity. The goal of our research is better inform partners and policymakers on ways to advance the economic security and well-being of women, their families, and communities.
For this position, candidates must have demonstrated working experience with statistical programs such as STATA, R or SPSS, major national public health and/or economic databases, and be able to interpret data, analyze results, acquire data from primary or secondary sources, and filter and clean data. This role is expected to be able to produce high quality research products for public audiences with independent initiative and minimal oversight.
Duties and Responsibilities
Research:
- Conduct and draft literature reviews and collaborate on research proposals that identify novel and impactful research activities on issues related to IWPR core research areas: Equitable Work and Wages, Caregiving and Families, Education and Career Advancement, and Reproductive Justice and Health Equity.
- Perform advanced, complex quantitative data analysis of large datasets and trends, utilizing network science and/or other statistical methods, including creating data visuals.
- Perform advanced qualitative data analysis, including developing and fielding online surveys; and conducting interviews and focus groups.
- Write high quality blog posts, briefs, fact sheets, reports and presentations based on the data work and analysis and accessible to broad audiences including policymakers, advocates, and the media.
- Use and integrate racial equity and intersectional frameworks and analysis in research study designs, written reports, and briefs.
- Assist with proposal and grant report drafting.
Program Management:
- Work with IWPR’s Communications Team to maintain and update website and publicize findings from the project.
- Work with IWPR’s Policy Team to develop research products targeted for key audiences.
- Coordinate research content, report releases, meetings, webinars and symposia on topics related to research projects.
- Demonstrated commitment to IWPR’s mission and vision, including IWPR’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Collaboration and Team building:
- Contribute to a positive organizational culture through teamwork and collaboration
- Participate in meetings, events, and celebrations that encourage connection and strengthen relationships.
Master’s Degree strongly preferred, with three years of experience managing high-level projects and programs, in a related field (e.g. women’s studies, economics, sociology, political science, public policy, law etc.). Applicants must have previous research experience in one or more of IWPR’s research areas.
- Strong program and project management skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines and competing demands.
- Experience with multivariate statistical methods, survey research and/or qualitative research and design and analysis
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including presentation skills.
- Superior problem-solving, managerial, and interpersonal skills.
- Effective, versatile, and action oriented.
- Ability to work strategically and collaboratively across the organization.
- Ability to work well under pressure with tight deadlines and multiple priorities.
- Demonstrated commitment to working in authentic partnership; humble and curious.
SALARY
This role is in a hybrid environment (minimum of two days a week in-person in the office) and is a full-time exempt position. The salary for the Research Associate is $71,820 – $89,262per year. The salary will be commensurate with experience. IWPR provides competitive salaries and a generous benefits package.
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit a resume, thoughtful cover letter and relevant writing sample by October 9, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. IWPR is an equal opportunity employer.
Vaccine Policy: IWPR has made the safety of our staff and our surrounding community a top priority. As part of that commitment, IWPR recently implemented a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. This policy states that all IWPR employees, interns, fellows, (i.e., IWPR staff) are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and to receive a booster shot. IWPR will require selected candidates to submit proof of complete vaccination against COVID-19 and having received a booster shot prior to extending a job offer. If a candidate has a qualifying medical condition that contraindicates a Covid-19 vaccination, a medical exemption form should be requested from Human Resources.
Apply for this position
Required*