Research Specialist

School of Social Work, Children and Family Research Center

Job Summary

Contributes to the intellectual and scientific development of research studies including the development of proposals, study design, and methods. Collaborates with other researchers to conduct data collection and analysis, and assists in the preparation of research reports, presentations, and academic articles. Work within a team environment to perform research and evaluation activities that enhance the child welfare and related human service fields, inform state and/or federal policy and practice, and contribute to scientific knowledge about child and family services.

Duties and Responsibilities

Perform a range of research activities that may include:

• Evaluation

o Developing evaluation plans and research designs to answer specific research questions

o Completing and updating IRB applications

o Designing data collection instruments

o Collecting primary data through surveys, interviews, and focus groups

o Analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, including data included in large, administrative data sets

• Dissemination

o Writing and submitting reports to funders as required

o Presenting research findings to agency administrators and community stakeholders

o Presenting research findings at academic conferences

o Writing scholarly articles for publication in academic journals

o Disseminating research findings through alternate types of communications including newsletters, research briefs, infographics, webinars, and others (in consultation with the CFRC Director)

• Grant-writing

o Participating in grant applications

o Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Master's or Doctorate degree in Psychology, Social Work, or other social science. Three years of professional (post-degree) research experience. Demonstrated proficiency in analyzing and reporting both quantitative and qualitative data. Demonstrated proficiency using various statistical software programs (SPSS, SAS, R, STATA, NVivo). Demonstrated discretion in handling confidential and sensitive data.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of the child welfare system. Experience working in an applied research setting.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as evidenced by research publications in academic journals or final evaluation reports. Ability to translate and convey complex concepts and research findings to a variety of audiences in both oral and written communications. Ability to work independently and effectively follow through on multiple priorities under deadline pressure.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the search posting closes. Fully-remote or hybrid work may be considered for this position. The minimum of the salary range for this position is $72,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on February 29, 2024. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Upload your cover letter, resume, and names and contact information for three professional references. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact SW-HR@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.