Research Scientist

Position Summary

The Research Scientist is essential in leading mixed-methods research initiatives that drive the understanding and enhancement of student outcomes. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, with the ability to integrate these approaches to address complex research questions. This individual will also supervise research analysts guiding data-driven projects and ensuring methodological rigor across all research activities.

Essential Functions:

Research Design and Methodology

• Lead the design and implementation of mixed-methods research projects, integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide comprehensive insights into student success.
• Develop and refine research questions, hypotheses, and study designs that align with institutional goals and address key issues related to student engagement, retention, and academic achievement.
• Strategize how AI-enhanced tools and techniques might support qualitative and quantitative research, including literature review, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

Qualitative Research Leadership

• Conduct and collaborate on qualitative research activities, including focus groups, interviews, and case studies.
• Apply advanced qualitative analysis techniques, such as thematic analysis, grounded theory, and narrative analysis, to uncover deep insights from student and other stakeholder perspectives.
• Ensure the ethical conduct of qualitative research, particularly in terms of participant confidentiality and data security.

Quantitative Research Leadership

• Design and execute quantitative studies, including surveys, experiments, and longitudinal studies, to measure and analyze key student success indicators.
• Apply advanced statistical techniques, such as multivariate analysis, regression modeling, and structural equation modeling, to interpret complex data sets.

Mixed-Methods Integration

• Lead the integration of qualitative and quantitative data to provide holistic insights and address multifaceted research questions.
• Develop mixed-methods research reports and presentations that communicate findings in a clear, accessible, and actionable manner to diverse stakeholders.
• Mentor and guide data analysts in applying mixed-methods approaches and ensuring methodological rigor.

Supervision and Team Collaboration

• Supervise research analysts, providing guidance on project priorities, data analysis techniques, and professional development.
• Coach, mentor, and develop team members to support learning and professional growth.
• Collaborate with Associate Vice President of Student Success and cross-functional teams, including academic departments, student services, and IT, to align research activities with institutional priorities and initiatives.
• Represent the research team in institutional meetings, committee, and presentations, effectively communicating the impact of research findings on student success strategies.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation

• Stay current with the latest advancements in mixed-methods research, AI, and higher education research, applying new methodologies and tools as appropriate.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of research protocols, standards, and best practices within the Student Success Science department.
• Publish and present research findings in academic journals, conferences, and university forums, contributing to the broader field of student success research.

Independent Work and Team Representation

• Work independently on assigned projects, managing time effectively and ensuring high-quality outputs without direct supervision.
• Represent the research team in cross-functional collaborations with university departments, effectively communicating insights and recommendations.
• Provide expert advice on research methodologies to faculty, staff, and other stakeholders as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Hire, train, and develop up to two (2) Research Analysts (one full-time and one part-time).

Requirements:

Education & Experience:

• Ph.D. in Educational Research, Sociology, Psychology, or a related field with a strong focus on mixed-methods research and student success in higher education required.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in conducting and leading mixed-methods research, with a proven track record of impactful projects in higher education or a related field, required.
• Extensive experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including study design, data collection, analysis, and reporting required.
• Knowledge of AI technologies as they apply to enhancing research methodologies and outcomes required.
• Experience supervising or mentoring research staff or graduate students is highly desirable.
• Experience in institutional research or similar roles within higher education preferred.
• Previous experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at academic conferences preferred.

Competencies/Technical/Functional Skills:

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data into actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong project management skills, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality output.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic academic environment, managing multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Commitment to ethical research practices, with a deep understanding of data privacy, confidentiality, and integrity in higher education research.
• Ability to innovate by applying new tools and techniques to enhance research practices.
• Capable of addressing complex, multifaceted research questions with a strategic approach.
• Accepts personal accountability, proactively seeks resolution for personal limitations head-on; and supports honesty and respect towards others, the university, and oneself.
• Actively seeks to influence, build effective relationships and gain alignment with peers, functional partners and/or external partners to accomplish objectives.
• Ability to manage interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically to foster a positive work environment.
• Holds team members accountable for their performance while providing the necessary support to ensure success.
• Ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, encouraging cooperation and trust.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation, data manipulation, and presentations.

Location: Remote

Travel: Some travel may be required < 5%

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Candidate receiving offers will be offered a salary/pay rate commensurate with experience that vary based on a candidate’s qualifications, skills, and competencies.  Absent exceptional circumstances, candidates will be offered a salary within this range for this position. The minimum salary will be offered based on the minimum exemption threshold based on state of residency. Base pay is one component of National University’s total rewards package, as we are dedicated to supporting the needs of the “whole you” with our holistic approach to employee benefits by offering comprehensive well-being benefits for you and your family.  For full details about our benefit plan offerings, please visit benefits.nu.edu. For Part-time benefits, please click here.

Compensation Range:

National University is committed to maintaining a high-quality, diverse workforce representative of the populations we serve. National University employs more than 5,000 faculty and staff and serves over 41,000 students. We are united in our mission to meet the global education demands of the 21st Century and are dedicated to creating a supportive academic and work environment that allows students, faculty and staff to develop their interests and talents while experiencing a sense of community and a commitment to diversity. With programs available both online and at our many campus locations, National University is a leader in creating innovative solutions to education and meeting the needs of our diverse student population, including adult learners and working professionals.

National University offers an opportunity to work in an innovative environment that supports diversity.

National University (NU) is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant per applicable federal, state and local laws. At NU, a diverse mix of highly talented, innovative and creative people come together to make the impact of a lifetime for each of our student learners. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment, education, and admission at National University. We are focused on equality and believe deeply in diversity of race, color, ancestry, age, family care status, veteran status, marital status, creed, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, national origin, and other legally protected group status.