What are the responsibilities and job description for the Education and Policy Research Associate position at Inside Higher Ed?
šGraduate School of Education, Stanford, California, United StatesšAdministrationš
ī¤īøīApr 17, 2026 Post Dateš
ī¤īøī108867 Requisition #
About Us
The Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE) is dedicated to solving education's greatest challenges. Through rigorous research, model training programs and partnerships with educators worldwide, we're pursuing equitable, accessible and effective learning for all. The GSE is a top-ranked school of education, known for its prestigious faculty, rigorous graduate degree programs, and its impact on the quality of education across the world. The GSE is committed to developing leaders in education research, practice and policy. Our community includes over 60 faculty, 400 students, 230 staff, 14,000 alumni and countless individuals from the local and global communities that we work with and impact.
Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE) is an independent, nonpartisan research center that bridges academic research and education policy in California. Founded in 1983, PACE is a collaboration between Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, and USC. It plays a critical role in providing high-quality research and evidence-based policy recommendations to improve education in California. PACEās unique position as a collaborative effort of leading universities provides it with unparalleled credibility and access to expertise across the state.
The Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE) seeks a full-time researcher to join the team at Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE). This researcher needs an understanding of education policy and how districts implement policies and change practices. The researcher will be responsible for collecting and analyzing qualitative data, analyzing descriptive quantitative data, presenting findings verbally and in writing, and interacting with educators and technical support providers participating in our studies. As a result, successful applicants will most likely have experience as an educator in a public-school setting and either training or some prior experience in research. Strong relational skills will be crucial for success.
This position is a 1-year fixed term appointment based (renewal based on existing funding) on Stanford Universityās main campus.
Consideration will be given to a hybrid work schedule (partially onsite and offsite work) because the position will require regular travel throughout California. Candidates should submit a CV and cover letter addressing their qualifications and interest in the position.
Applications should be submitted through Stanford Universityās HR portal.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Director of Education Policy and Outcomes at PACE, the researcher will join a small team of policy researchers whose goal is to improve Californiaās educational systems by increasing the use of evidence in California education policy through conducting policy-relevant studies and translating ideas from extant research into accessible language for educational policy- and decision-makers.
Typical Responsibilities Include
Source, collect and analyze data, create reports, review and explain trends; formulate and evaluate alternative solutions and/or recommendations to achieve the goals of the program or function.
Write and/or edit complex content for proposals, research grants, peer-reviewed publications, and other program activities.
Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to varied stakeholders for our research and making program improvement recommendations that impact policies and programs.
Identify, recommend and implement opportunities for new research.
Contribute to and inform on strategic program planning and related funding and financial sustainability.
Develop or contribute to outreach strategy related to program communications, development, partnerships, and fundraising/funding.Additional responsibilities at the Graduate School of Education include:
Conduct site visits, including observation of educator professional development opportunities, internal district meetings, and/or interviews of policy-makers and educational leaders.
Present research results to organizational partners, stakeholders, and educational policy-makers.
Minimum Requirements
Education and experience
Required
Bachelorās degree and three years of relevant experience or combination of education, training, and relevant experience. Advanced degree may be required for some programs. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Ability to develop program partnerships and funding sources.
Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills, exhibiting fluency in area of specialization.
Ability to oversee and direct staff.
Basic knowledge of managing budgets and developing financial plans.
Desirable Qualifications Include
Experience as a teacher in TK-12th grade and/or experience as a policy analyst.
Strong communication skills, including the ability to translate complex research into accessible and actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.
Familiarity with the diverse needs of Californiaās student populations, including underserved groups such as English learners, students from low-income communities, and students with disabilities.
Physical Requirements
Candidates must be eligible to work in the US. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
The expected pay range for this position is $116,966 - $140,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanfordās extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
WHY STANFORD IS FOR YOU
Benefits
Stanfordās dedicated 16,000 staff, who come from diverse educational and career backgrounds. We are a collaborative environment that thrives on innovation and continuous improvement. At Stanford, we seek talent committed to excellence, driven to impact the future of our legacy, and improve lives on a global scale. We provide market competitive salaries, excellent health care and retirement plans, and a generous vacation policy, including additional time off during our winter closure. Our unique perks align with what matters to you:
Freedom to grow. As one of the greatest intellectual hubs in the world, take advantage of development programs, tuition reimbursement plus $800 you receive annually towards skill-building classes, or audit a Stanford course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or leader discuss global issues.
A caring culture. We understand the importance of your personal and family time and provide you access to wellness programs, child-care resources, parent education and consultation, elder care and caregiving support.
A healthier you. We make wellness a priority by providing access to world-class exercise facilities. Climb our rock wall, or participate in one of hundreds of health or fitness classes.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums. Create an avatar and participate in virtual reality adventures or join one with fellow staff on Stanford vacations!
Enviable resources. We offer free commuter programs and ridesharing incentives. Enjoy discounts for computing, cell phones, outdoor recreation, travel, entertainment, and more.
We pride ourselves in being a culture that encourages and empowers you.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at stanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Additional Information
About Us
The Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE) is dedicated to solving education's greatest challenges. Through rigorous research, model training programs and partnerships with educators worldwide, we're pursuing equitable, accessible and effective learning for all. The GSE is a top-ranked school of education, known for its prestigious faculty, rigorous graduate degree programs, and its impact on the quality of education across the world. The GSE is committed to developing leaders in education research, practice and policy. Our community includes over 60 faculty, 400 students, 230 staff, 14,000 alumni and countless individuals from the local and global communities that we work with and impact.
Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE) is an independent, nonpartisan research center that bridges academic research and education policy in California. Founded in 1983, PACE is a collaboration between Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, and USC. It plays a critical role in providing high-quality research and evidence-based policy recommendations to improve education in California. PACEās unique position as a collaborative effort of leading universities provides it with unparalleled credibility and access to expertise across the state.
The Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE) seeks a full-time researcher to join the team at Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE). This researcher needs an understanding of education policy and how districts implement policies and change practices. The researcher will be responsible for collecting and analyzing qualitative data, analyzing descriptive quantitative data, presenting findings verbally and in writing, and interacting with educators and technical support providers participating in our studies. As a result, successful applicants will most likely have experience as an educator in a public-school setting and either training or some prior experience in research. Strong relational skills will be crucial for success.
This position is a 1-year fixed term appointment based (renewal based on existing funding) on Stanford Universityās main campus.
Consideration will be given to a hybrid work schedule (partially onsite and offsite work) because the position will require regular travel throughout California. Candidates should submit a CV and cover letter addressing their qualifications and interest in the position.
Applications should be submitted through Stanford Universityās HR portal.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Director of Education Policy and Outcomes at PACE, the researcher will join a small team of policy researchers whose goal is to improve Californiaās educational systems by increasing the use of evidence in California education policy through conducting policy-relevant studies and translating ideas from extant research into accessible language for educational policy- and decision-makers.
Typical Responsibilities Include
Source, collect and analyze data, create reports, review and explain trends; formulate and evaluate alternative solutions and/or recommendations to achieve the goals of the program or function.
Write and/or edit complex content for proposals, research grants, peer-reviewed publications, and other program activities.
Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to varied stakeholders for our research and making program improvement recommendations that impact policies and programs.
Identify, recommend and implement opportunities for new research.
Contribute to and inform on strategic program planning and related funding and financial sustainability.
Develop or contribute to outreach strategy related to program communications, development, partnerships, and fundraising/funding.Additional responsibilities at the Graduate School of Education include:
Conduct site visits, including observation of educator professional development opportunities, internal district meetings, and/or interviews of policy-makers and educational leaders.
Present research results to organizational partners, stakeholders, and educational policy-makers.
Minimum Requirements
Education and experience
Required
Bachelorās degree and three years of relevant experience or combination of education, training, and relevant experience. Advanced degree may be required for some programs. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Ability to develop program partnerships and funding sources.
Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills, exhibiting fluency in area of specialization.
Ability to oversee and direct staff.
Basic knowledge of managing budgets and developing financial plans.
Desirable Qualifications Include
Experience as a teacher in TK-12th grade and/or experience as a policy analyst.
Strong communication skills, including the ability to translate complex research into accessible and actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.
Familiarity with the diverse needs of Californiaās student populations, including underserved groups such as English learners, students from low-income communities, and students with disabilities.
Physical Requirements
- Frequently stand/walk, sitting, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, perform desk-based computer tasks. manipulation, perform desk-based computer tasks.
- Occasionally use a telephone, writing by hand, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 40 pounds.
- Rarely sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh >40 pounds.
- Ability to use voice to present information/communicate with others.
- On-campus mobility.
- May work extended hours, evenings or weekends.
- May travel locally.
- Occasional overnight travel.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the US. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
The expected pay range for this position is $116,966 - $140,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanfordās extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
WHY STANFORD IS FOR YOU
Benefits
Stanfordās dedicated 16,000 staff, who come from diverse educational and career backgrounds. We are a collaborative environment that thrives on innovation and continuous improvement. At Stanford, we seek talent committed to excellence, driven to impact the future of our legacy, and improve lives on a global scale. We provide market competitive salaries, excellent health care and retirement plans, and a generous vacation policy, including additional time off during our winter closure. Our unique perks align with what matters to you:
Freedom to grow. As one of the greatest intellectual hubs in the world, take advantage of development programs, tuition reimbursement plus $800 you receive annually towards skill-building classes, or audit a Stanford course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or leader discuss global issues.
A caring culture. We understand the importance of your personal and family time and provide you access to wellness programs, child-care resources, parent education and consultation, elder care and caregiving support.
A healthier you. We make wellness a priority by providing access to world-class exercise facilities. Climb our rock wall, or participate in one of hundreds of health or fitness classes.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums. Create an avatar and participate in virtual reality adventures or join one with fellow staff on Stanford vacations!
Enviable resources. We offer free commuter programs and ridesharing incentives. Enjoy discounts for computing, cell phones, outdoor recreation, travel, entertainment, and more.
We pride ourselves in being a culture that encourages and empowers you.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at stanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Additional Information
- Schedule: Full-time
- Job Code: 4112
- Employee Status: Fixed-Term
- Grade: J
- Requisition ID: 108867
- Work Arrangement : Hybrid Eligible
Salary : $800