Director of Research
Institute for Women's Policy Research
The Institute for Women's Policy Research (IWPR) seeks an experienced
social science researcher with excellent management, program and
business development, and public presentation skills to strengthen and
lead the strategic growth of its policy research portfolio. Expertise
in employment and labor markets, poverty and inequality, or health
economics desired.
IWPR is a Washington D.C.-based think-tank that conducts rigorous
research and disseminates its findings to address the needs of women,
promote public dialogue, and strengthen families, communities, and
societies. (See
www.iwpr.org for more information about IWPR's mission
and work.). Areas of research include Employment, Education and
Earnings, Poverty and Income Security, Work and Family Issues, Democracy
and Society, and Health and Safety.
Position Summary:
The Director of Research's primary responsibilities will be to:
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Ensure the strategic and effective conception, design,
development, implementation, and dissemination of high quality,
policy-relevant research that addresses the information needs of policy
makers, advocates, and the public.
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Manage and develop a small but highly skilled research staff,
currently including directly overseeing 5 Ph.D./MA-level researchers,
and several consultants, who in turn supervise research assistants,
research interns and fellows, and additional research consultants.
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Play a lead role in fundraising from private foundations and
government sources to meet research budget targets (currently $1.9
million per year), in collaboration with the Institute's development
department. This will involve meeting with potential funders,
developing new research, and leading and contributing to the research
grant proposal process.
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Develop and track the research department budget.
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Represent the organization to the public through presentations
and relations with the media.
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Spend a percentage of time directly involved in funded research
in their area of expertise.
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Serve on the organization's management team and as liaison to
the research and program committee of the Board of Directors.
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Lead and convene the organization's external Program Advisory
Committee to receive expert input on program direction.
Desired Skills, Qualifications, and Expertise:
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Ph.D. in economics, sociology, public policy or a related
discipline; rigorous training in quantitative and gender-related social
science research methods; at least five years of post-Ph.D. work
experience.
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A strong record of publication and presentation of
policy-relevant research.
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Excellent staff management and supervision skills, including at
least five years of personnel management experience.
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Financial and budgeting acumen.
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An entrepreneurial orientation and evidence of success raising
funds for research.
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Outstanding program and management skills.
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Excellent capabilities in organizational development,
team-building, motivating staff, and creating a positive, vision-driven
work culture.
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High-level experience in an applied policy environment, and deep
expertise in several policy areas affecting women and families.
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A passion for contributing to gender and racial/ethnic equity,
and to improving the well-being of low-income families.
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A love of the research process.
Compensation:
IWPR offers a competitive salary based on experience and a generous
benefits package, including:
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vacation, sick, personal, and family leave;
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health, disability, dental, and prescription drug insurance;
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employer contribution to a 403-b retirement plan,
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Flexible Spending Account plan;
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transportation subsidy; and
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a flexible workplace.
Accountability:
The Director of Research will report to the Executive Director.
To apply: Send a cover letter, CV or resume, short writing sample, and
contact information for three references to:
Research Director Search Committee
Institute for Women's Policy Research
1707 L Street NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20036
Or by e-mail:
researchdirector@iwpr.org.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
The Institute for Women's Policy Research is an equal opportunity,
affirmative action employer. People of color are encouraged to apply.
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