Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from American University
Job overview
The Senior Qualitative Researcher at American University’s Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab (PERIL) leads qualitative research projects addressing societal challenges like extremism and radicalization to advance the lab's mission.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves overseeing research projects, managing funder and partner relationships, conducting qualitative and some quantitative data analysis, presenting findings, contributing to research innovations, writing journal articles, and collaborating on grant writing.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers an annual salary range of $75,000 to $85,000, a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits, leadership development certificates, and recognition as a fit-friendly worksite.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have a Master's degree and 3-5 years of relevant experience; a PhD, 4-6 years of experience, expertise in quantitative methods, and a strong publication record are preferred.
Career development
Opportunities include leadership in research projects, collaboration on grant writing, and contributing to innovative research methodologies, supporting professional growth within a research-focused academic environment.
Work environment and culture
American University promotes a student-centered, inclusive, and equitable culture with a hybrid work modality requiring 3-4 days on campus weekly, emphasizing community engagement and scientific inquiry.
Company information
American University is a well-regarded research institution in Washington, DC, known for its impactful research, internationally renowned faculty, and commitment to creating societal change.
Team overview
The candidate will join the Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab (PERIL), a team focused on research in polarization, extremism, and radicalization, working closely with directors, staff, and external partners.
Job location and travel
The job is located in Washington, DC, with a hybrid schedule requiring 3-4 days on campus and some remote work days.
Application process
Applicants must complete a background check and current employees should apply through the internal Workday system; contact is available via email for assistance.
Unique job features
The role is distinguished by its focus on cutting-edge research on extremism and polarization, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, and contributing to academic publications and grant acquisition.
Company overview
American University is a private research university located in Washington, D.C., known for its strong emphasis on public service, international engagement, and interdisciplinary studies. It generates revenue through tuition, research grants, and donations, offering undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields such as law, business, and international relations. Founded in 1893, the university has a rich history of political activism and notable alumni in government, media, and the arts.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight leadership in qualitative research projects, emphasizing your ability to design and oversee studies focused on societal challenges like polarization and extremism, as described by PERIL's mission at American University.
Emphasize skills in managing research timelines, stakeholder relationships, and data archiving, along with your experience in synthesizing qualitative and quantitative findings for reports, presentations, and academic publications.
Apply through American University's official career portal, LinkedIn, and relevant academic and research job boards to maximize your exposure to the hiring team.
Connect with current researchers and administrative staff in the School of Public Affairs and PERIL lab on LinkedIn, using ice breakers such as commenting on recent PERIL publications, asking about their collaborative research experiences, or inquiring how qualitative insights are integrated into their projects.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords like 'qualitative research,' 'project management,' 'data analysis,' 'grant writing,' 'academic publishing,' and 'community engagement' directly from the job description to ensure better matching with American University's screening algorithms.
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