Research Assistant, Learning Supports
American Institutes for Research
Summary
AIR is seeking a Research Assistant for its Learning Supports program. This position will support a growing portfolio of research focused on improving student learning outcomes, including projects related to instruction, education technology, leadership development, and supports for special populations such as English learners and students with disabilities.
Job description
Responsibilities
- Conduct literature reviews to support research projects and proposal development activities.
- Prepare and clean data for analysis, including renaming variables, generating derived variables, and reviewing datasets for errors and missing values.
- Code and review studies for research synthesis and evidence review projects.
- Conduct quantitative and qualitative analyses and contribute to the reporting and interpretation of findings.
- Support efforts to recruit and engage schools and districts in research studies, including conducting outreach, building relationships, and coordinating recruitment activities.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for schools and teachers, providing ongoing communication and coordination related to study data collection activities.
- Develop and maintain spreadsheets, databases, and tracking tools to support project activities.
- Support business development efforts by researching funding opportunities, conducting literature reviews, and contributing to proposal development.
- Assist in identifying, reviewing, and developing scholarly materials that communicate research findings.
- Prepare research products, presentations, and communication materials for delivery and dissemination.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in the social sciences or a related field. Knowledge of or experience with research methodologies and data collection approaches, such as research synthesis screening, survey design, structured interviews, observations, and focus groups. Experience with or interest in learning communication tools and strategies, including social media platforms. Experience with or interest in learning software programs such as NVivo, R, or Stata for data analysis is preferred, but not required.
Skills
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in data collection, analysis, and report preparation.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
- Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate efficiently in a virtual work environment.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work and communicate effectively with project stakeholders and external partners.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in the social sciences or a related field
- Knowledge of or experience with research methodologies and data collection approaches
- Experience with research synthesis screening, survey design, structured interviews, observations, and focus groups
- Experience with or interest in learning communication tools and strategies, including social media platforms
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously
- Effective communication skills
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work and communicate effectively with project stakeholders and external partners
- Must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis
Benefits
- Remote work flexibility
- Total Rewards Program
Company overview
The American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a leading nonprofit, nonpartisan behavioral and social science research organization founded in 1946. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, AIR operates as one of the world's largest social science research institutions with over 1,800 staff members across multiple U.S. locations and international offices. The organization specializes in conducting rigorous research, evaluation, and technical assistance across three primary domains: education, health, and workforce development. AIR's mission centers on generating and utilizing evidence-based approaches to address complex social challenges and promote equity. The institute maintains strict independence and objectivity in its work, collaborating with government agencies, educational institutions, and international development organizations. Notable initiatives include Project Talent, a landmark longitudinal study tracking 400,000 high school students, and various federal projects supporting education policy implementation and workforce development. AIR's expertise spans early childhood education, K-12 systems, higher education, healthcare delivery, mental health services, and international development programs, consistently applying scientific rigor to inform policy and practice improvements.