Senior Research Associate Job Description
Oakland, CA
May 2008
The Applied Research Center is a 25-year-old racial-justice, non-profit think tank with offices in Oakland, Chicago and New York. We aim to provide a hub and home for the diverse elements of the racial justice movement, which we see as part of a larger progressive movement. Our current programs include Strategic Research, Public Policy, Media, and Networks. ARC also publishes ColorLines, the national newsmagazine on race and politics, and maintains the www.racewire.org blog. The ARC Senior Research Associate will work closely with the Research Director to develop contemporary racial justice theory, highlight solutions to racial inequity, and outreach to grassroots and academic communities. The position requires monthly travel and is based in Oakland, CA.
Responsibilities
- Assist the Research Director in conceptualizing, planning and implementing short and long-term research projects.
- Provide research support for Public Policy, Media, and Network projects.
- Help train and supervise interns and volunteers.
- Support organizational fundraising efforts, including but not limited to conducting foundation visits, drafting grant proposals, and making presentations at philanthropic conferences.
- Conduct and direct research as necessary, including advanced quantitative data analysis, public opinion research and qualitative research.
- Write appropriately for multiple public products such as reports, research briefs and reviews, scripts for multimedia products such as documentary video, and online editorials/blogs.
- Present research and other ARC products in professional and media settings.
- Additional duties as assigned by the Research Director.
Skills and Qualifications
- Advanced degree (M.A., or Ph.D.) in economics, ethnic studies, political science, sociology, public policy, women’s studies, or other social science, highly desirable.
- At least 3 years experience in applied social science research.
- Expertise in racial justice theory, history and current conditions affecting diverse communities, including Black, Asian, Latino, American Indian and Middle Eastern communities, both U.S. born and immigrant. Strong familiarity with progressive social change practices and landscapes, particularly in racial justice and related fields (poverty, criminal justice, immigration, education, health care, environmental justice).
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills. Ability to write in multiple styles for lay and professional audiences. Ability to write quickly with high level of competence [Note: Ability to read, write, and communicate in a foreign language also a plus].
- Demonstrated ability to meet frequent deadlines when working individually and in team settings.
- Extensive experience with Microsoft Excel, SPSS, and/or other software for organizing and analyzing data.
- Supervisor / management / training experience.
- Familiarity with multimedia forms of presenting research, including power point, video and audio forms.
- Patience, a strong work ethic, and a well-honed sense of humor.
- Comfort in diverse settings, from grassroots meetings to professional conferences.
Compensation – ARC’s salary range is competitive with social justice non-profits. In addition we offer an excellent benefits package including health insurance, pension, transportation stipend, generous vacations, and paid sabbaticals.
How to Apply
Submit a cover letter, resume (not to exceed 2 pages), list of 2-3 references, and two writing samples (at least one of which should not exceed 5 pages) to Dominique Apollon, Research Director at dapollon@arc.org, or 900 Alice Street, Suite 400, Oakland, CA 94607. Applications welcome until the position is filled. Reviews will begin Tuesday, May 27th.
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