The Urban Institute analyzes policies, evaluates programs and offers independent facts, rigorous analysis and evidence-based solutions to inform policymakers and the public about the challenges and opportunities confronting our nation.

The Center on Labor, Human Services, & Population (LHP) of the Urban Institute analyzes employment and income trends, studies how the U.S. population is growing and changing, and evaluates programs dealing with homelessness, child welfare, and job training. The center also works on immigration, mortality, sexual and reproductive health, adolescent risk behavior, child care, domestic violence, and youth development.

LHP is seeking research associates to support two projects. One research study requires individuals with strong quantitative skills to conduct empirical studies related to household finance, asset building, poverty, labor, and social policy for low-income populations. Researchers will have responsibility for developing conceptual models, conducting empirical studies, and writing and presenting reports to academic and policy audiences. The position also requires participation in the center's proposal writing initiatives.

Another project within LHP has opportunities for research associates to conduct research studies on early childhood programs and policies, including studying systems, child and family outcomes, program implementation, and program evaluation in areas such as child care, Head Start and Early Head Start, state prekindergarten, and home visiting. Responsibilities may include conducting empirical studies, writing research proposals, synthesizing research literature, developing research protocols, leading site visits and data collection activities, quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis, and writing and presenting reports orally to academic and policy audiences. Qualifications for both require Ph.D. in economics, human development, developmental psychology, family studies, public policy, sociology, or related discipline with strong economics and econometrics training, as well as strong writing and communication skills, relevant substantive knowledge, and social policy research experience needed to perform the duties described above.

Demonstration of the ability to conduct policy-relevant empirical analyses and to present material to lay audiences in writing and orally. Knowledge of early childhood research and policy, and experience conducting field work, are required. Training in both quantitative and qualitative methods is preferred.

To apply please visit https://jobs-urban.icims.com
Job# 1890 for the child development job and Job#1892 for the poverty/labor job