Sr. Policy Analyst

Under minimal administrative direction, the analyst will conduct quantitative and qualitative research on a broad range of policy areas. In particular, we are seeking a researcher with strong quantitative skills and the ability to select, develop, and/or recommend appropriate research design methodologies, data analyses, and statistical procedures. This analyst will be expected to manage data collection and compilation; analyze and interpret quantitative and qualitative data; write technical reports, presentations, and articles for publication; manage the IRB submission and approval process; and utilize various computer programs to perform data computation, statistical analysis, etc. Individual must also have strong skills in the graphic presentation of data.

This role requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, the ability to conduct primary and secondary research, as well as the ability to interface with clients, funders, policymakers, and key stakeholders. Additionally, the desired candidate will have strong public speaking skills and the ability to handle media inquiries, present at public forums and facilitate focus groups. The research analyst must have strong interpersonal skills, be able to manage complex timelines, meet all project deadlines, and ensure that project expenditures align with the project budget.

Essential Duties

Design, coordinate and conduct research in any of Morrison Institute’s seven focal areas (water, education, governance, changing demographics, economic growth, criminal justice, human services and health). This includes collecting documents and compiling data from various sources (government agencies, universities, libraries, Internet, non-profit research organizations etc.), conducting key informant interviews, leading focus groups, analyzing, applying weights to survey data, and synthesizing key findings.

Implement research methodologies and statistical procedures with accuracy

Analyze and produce written summaries of quantitative data

Write research-based reports, briefs and blogs that effectively communicate data and policy options to target audiences and the public at large with minimal supervision or editing

Provide editing assistance for research products in preparation for publication

Develop rapport and credibility with funders, academic and industry partners, and policy makers to best facilitate engaging them in substantive partnerships

Prioritize tasks to manage and meet deadlines which includes assisting with organizational, scheduling and logistical needs for research

Provide input on the selection, hiring, and supervision of interns.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related field and seven years of related administrative experience; OR, Eleven years of related administrative experience; OR, Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

Desired Qualifications

Evidence of a Master’s degree, or Ph. D, in related field

Demonstrated knowledge of research design and methodologies (both qualitative and quantitative)

Experience with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS, SAS, STATA)

Experience conducting public policy research

Experience with public opinion polls and survey research (including survey design, weighting, data analysis)

Demonstrated knowledge of library and online research resources

Experience in reviewing and synthesizing current literature and best practices

Experience writing and editing for a variety of audiences

Experience in using critical thinking skills

Experience in using writing skills to translate complex concepts and data for a broad readership

Experience in public speaking

Experience in planning and coordinating activities and establishing priorities to meet deadlines

Experience with media interviews (print, radio, and video)

Experience leading focus groups and/or small group facilitation

Experience conducting key stakeholder interviews

Experience writing grants proposals and final reports to funders

Working Environment

Activities are mostly performed in an environmentally controlled office setting.

Communicate to perform essential duties.

Use office equipment including a computer.

Department Statement

Morrison Institute for Public Policy is a statewide leader in examining critical issues for Arizona and the region, and is a catalyst for public dialogue. An Arizona State University resource, Morrison Institute uses nonpartisan research, analysis and public outreach to help improve the state’s quality of life.

website:
https://morrisoninstitute.asu.edu

ASU Statement

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 90,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation’s fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.

ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit

www.asu.edu/tobaccofree

AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Employment Verification Statement

ASU conducts pre-employment screening which may include verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications.

Background Check Statement

ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check.

Instructions to Apply

Application deadline is 3:00PM Arizona time on the date indicated.

Please include all employment information in month/year format (e.g., 6/88 to 8/94), job title, job duties and name of employer for each position.

Resume should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meets the Minimum and Desired qualifications of this position.

ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated.

Only electronic applications are accepted for this position.