Director of Research

Context

Accelerate exists to dramatically improve student outcomes at scale by turning evidence into action. As a hub for advancing what works, Accelerate partners with states to scale proven, evidence-based practices that deliver measurable gains for students. We share knowledge and insights across the field to expand what’s possible, working alongside leaders to embed effective solutions into the fabric of public education. By aligning research, policy, and practice through state implementation, we turn evidence into measurable progress, helping students thrive.

Accelerate is a growing organization - one that is equity-centered, results-oriented, and simultaneously grounded in optimism and realistic implementation. We aspire to build a small, talented, diverse team of leaders who bring both systemic experience and an entrepreneurial spirit to the work.

Position Overview

The Director of Research will support the research work in collaboration with the Managing Director of Research and Evaluation. The role will further the organization’s research partnerships and studies within its grant programs. The ideal candidate will be able to interpret and analyze large data sets, conduct literature reviews as well as work closely with other team members to coordinate and streamline multiple projects. 

Responsibilities

Research

• Gather relevant research articles and publications to support the development of literature reviews 
• Support original research and data analysis by sourcing datasets from publicly available sources (e.g., Common Core of Data; state/district websites) and analyzing internal data 
• Support ideation and drafting conference proposals, coordinating internal and external speakers for sessions
• Attend and present at conferences

Project Management

• Support the facilitation of the Research Learning Community by attending and documenting meetings, and following up with staff and partners as needed
• Manage research project timelines, meetings and activities across various stakeholders, communicating project alignment and progress
• Coordinate and conduct internal review of funded research projects

Administrative

• Update and maintain accurate research notes, reports and records in the grant system and internal research catalog
• Coordinate research related meetings, including scheduling group external meetings, preparing agendas, documenting meeting discussions and coordinating follow up
• Maintain and organize digital research files and folders, updating with open source datasets, research reports, journal articles etc. 
• Provide administrative support to the MD of Research and Evaluation by drafting email communications and scheduling/coordinating research-related group meetings 

Qualifications

• Masters degree in humanities, social sciences, economics, statistics, or related discipline. Doctorate degree (public policy; education policy; economics of education) preferred
• Prior experience in applied research, K-12 education or non-profit preferred
• Strong quantitative skills to analyze data and findings and convert them into actionable lessons for the field
• Highly organized with the ability to interpret and follow complex guidelines and instructions
• Project management experience, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Skilled in monitoring progress against goals and objectives
• Strong writer, with attention to detail, clarity and conciseness 
• Clear record of successfully accomplishing tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Proven ability to swiftly and creatively find solutions to tough problems
• Exceptional ability to communicate with others and convey complex ideas
• Authentic desire and willingness to listen to, learn from, and connect with a diverse range of people with varied interests and experiences, including students, families, educators, policymakers, local leaders, and funders
• Unwavering belief in the potential of all students
• A desire to continually grow, improve, and learn

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is between $80,000 and $130,000.

Accelerate also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, technology stipend, 401k with employer match, and generous PTO.

Working conditions

This is a fully-remote position, with some travel required. 

How to Apply

Please submit an application, including a resume, here (https://wkf.ms/40EwKUT). Applications will close on Friday, September 12 at 9am ET. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].