from idealist.org
http://www.idealist.org/en/job/275811-38

Research Associate - K-12 Education

Education:                              Master (MA, MSW, etc.)
Location:                                New York, New York, 10016, United States
Posted by:                              MDRC
Job Category:                         Research
Language(s):                           English
Job posted on:                       April 21, 2008
Area of Focus:                         Education and Academia, Research and Science
Type:                                       Full time
Last day to apply:                    June 20, 2008
Last updated:                          April 21, 2008

Description:
MDRC is seeking a Research Associate to join our K-12 Education policy group in the New York office. The successful candidate will contribute to research aimed at improving the education of students in low performing elementary and secondary schools. Our research includes demonstrations and rigorous evaluations of interventions related to early-grade reading curricula, teacher professional development, after-school programs, high school reforms, and district-wide policy initiatives.

Responsibilities:
The position provides the successful candidate an opportunity to:
Work with a multidisciplinary research team to conceptualize and implement rigorous
evaluations of education initiatives. Engage in site recruitment for new studies and serve as a liaison with schools and districts. Collect both qualitative and quantitative data from school records, state databases, surveys, classroom observations, and interviews with participants. Process and analyze data; contribute to various stages of producing reports, proposals, and papers; and assist in the dissemination of results to policymakers, practitioners, and social scientists.

Qualifications:
Prospective candidates should possess the following requisite qualifications:
Demonstrated experience and interest in working with schools, school districts, and/or
education policy. PhD in a social science field or a master.s degree and extensive demonstrated experience in the field of education. Solid understanding of quantitative research methods, as well as knowledge of field research and qualitative research techniques. Ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and meet deadlines. Ability to collaborate and with diverse program teams and external partners. Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as analytic ability.
Excellent interpersonal skills. Research design knowledge, project management experience, and facility with SAS are  pluses. Some on-the-job training is provided; salary contingent upon experience.

How to Apply:

Please mail, fax, or email resume, cover letter, the names of three references, and a
writing sample to:

Human Resources Department
K-12 Education Research Associate [8002-10]
MDRC 16 East 34th Street
New York, NY 10016
Fax: 212-532-8453
Email: jobs@mdrc.org

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, MDRC strongly encourages minorities, women, people with disabilities, and Vietnam-era veterans to apply.