Assistant/Associate Research Scientist

A humble college founded before Texas was a state, Baylor now stands as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. Baylor has continued to invest in research and doctoral education, both solidifying and elevating its unique status as a preeminent Christian research university. Baylor is among 187 R1 institutions, just 52 of which are private universities. 

Since 2011, Baylor has been named as one of the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For”. Great Colleges to Work For® is one of the country’s largest and most respected workplace recognition programs. Each year, Great Colleges recognizes the colleges and universities that get top employee ratings regarding workplace practices and policies across 10 areas. This recognition is based on faculty and staff responses to a related annual survey. The survey, conducted by ModernThink, is a way for colleges and universities to gain a deeper understanding of how their employees experience and view various aspects of the institution. This continued recognition further affirms Baylor as a rewarding place to build a career.

What We Are Looking For

Baylor University is seeking an Assistant or Associate Research Scientist in the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing. The Research Scientist supports the research and training agenda of the Baylor Collaborative on Faith and Disability, a signature initiative of the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing. This role leads and coordinates interdisciplinary research projects exploring the intersection of faith, disability, and congregational life. The position collaborates with faculty, churches, and community partners to generate scholarship, develop practical resources, and translate research findings into strategies that strengthen belonging for people with disabilities and their families in local congregations.

Our research agenda examines the intersections of disability, faith, and congregational life. Current and emerging areas of inquiry include the spiritual lives of children and adults with disabilities, the faith and flourishing of families, expressions of disability theology, and inclusive models of ministry. We are especially interested in applied researchers who bring quantitative or mixed-methods expertise, strong analytic and writing skills, a passion for equipping the Church, and a commitment to translating findings in accessible and impactful ways.

A doctoral degree and three years of relevant work experience are required. A doctoral degree and five years of relevant work experience are preferred. A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of one another. Baylor reserves the right to hire into the Assistant or Associate Research Scientist classification. This is an in-person position based at the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing in Waco, Texas.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

What You Will Do

• Oversee the planning, coordination, and implementation of research initiatives related to faith and disability, with particular emphasis on quantitative and mixed-methods studies

• Manage large-scale landscape studies and interdisciplinary research teams focused on our research agenda

• Develop project timelines, coordinate research activities, and ensure effective completion of assigned research initiatives

• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate research assistants involved in Collaborative projects

• Coordinate day-to-day research activities including study recruitment, data collection, and data management

• Facilitate regular team meetings and collaborative writing groups

• Contribute to the development of peer-reviewed publications, research reports, briefs, and practical ministry resources that communicate findings from Collaborative initiatives

• Support dissemination through presentations, publications, training materials, and other formats designed for both academic and ministry audiences

• Assist with the preparation of grant proposals, foundation applications, and project reports related to the Collaborative’s research agenda

• Support implementation of a new research fellows program

• Collaborate with faculty and Center leadership to identify funding opportunities and support the development of externally funded research initiatives

• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with churches, ministry leaders, families, nonprofit organizations, and scholars engaged in faith and disability work

• Participate in trainings, events, and community conversations that translate research into practices that advance belonging and inclusion in congregational life

• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission

• Ability to comply with university policies

• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

About the Center

The Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing advances research, training, outreach, and clinical services that promote the flourishing of people with disabilities, their families, and communities. Through a growing portfolio of projects, partnerships, clinics, and events, the Center is committed to helping schools, churches, and communities foster belonging and support the full participation of people with disabilities. Named as one of Baylor’s Bold Pursuits, the Center is positioning the university to become a leading voice for interdisciplinary research, training, and leadership in disability and flourishing.

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus.  To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

Explore & Engage

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds.  Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally.  If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!