Department Information
The Polis Center is an applied research center at IU Indianapolis in the IU Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering at Indianapolis. Polis makes data actionable for improving community health, equity, and resilience. We build and use information technology and geographically precise data across a variety of domains and sectors to identify and address our community’s most pressing challenges. We are a convener and connector, collaborating with community and academic partners to translate data and research into action. We build capacity in nonprofits, community-based organizations, government, and researchers to use these resources effectively for community good.
From inception, The Polis Center has been guided by core values that include making a difference, collaboration, developing creative solutions to real-world problems, accountability, integrity, respect, and stewardship. We offer a fun team environment. Our team is passionate about the work we do, and we love working together.
The Polis Center places great value on a positive work/life balance.
Job Summary
The Polis Center is looking for an experienced data analyst to join our community analysis team in producing data and research used by nonprofits, community-based organizations, government, and academics for community good.
Department-Specific Responsibilities
- Performs in-depth quantitative and qualitative data analysis, data visualization and literature review, and summarizes findings for community-facing reports.
- Authors reports, engages with stakeholders, and advisors for community participation in research and reports, and presents findings at public events.
- Designs and conducts analyses of disparities and inequities across different domains, such as education, criminal justice, public health, healthcare, employment, housing, and economic opportunity.
- Collects and analyzes quantitative data from various sources, including surveys, databases, and public records, to identify patterns, trends, and disparities related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability status, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
- Designs, develops, and validates data indices as needed to support research and analysis.
- Conducts qualitative research and analysis, including literature reviews, interviews, focus groups, and case studies, to gain a nuanced understanding of the underlying causes and effects of disparities.
- Stays updated on emerging research, policies, and practices related to equity and social justice to inform and enhance research strategies and initiatives.
- Writes content for websites, newsletters, journal articles, and other publications to disseminate and share research and analysis findings.
- Develops presentations for internal and external meetings and public events, including for in-person and virtual settings.
- Prepares data visualizations, including charts, maps, and graphics for websites and reports.
- Prepares specialized content to communicate the significance of equity analysis results.
- Presents analysis and visualizations to a variety of audiences, including lay audiences.
- Fosters partnerships with external organizations, researchers, and subject matter experts to enhance research capabilities and promote knowledge sharing.
- Engages Equity Advisory Committee and/or other stakeholder groups.
General Responsibilities
- Performs complex data collection, data analysis, data management, literature research, technical writing, and reporting in support of research project(s); performs quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis.
- Ensures quality control of data and reports findings to federal and other agencies.
- Consults with faculty researchers and research staff and provides input on research project evaluations and research project designs.
- Writes various technical reports, journal articles, and/or develops presentations to disseminate and share research findings.
- Performs various analyses to ensures quality assurance of research findings (data quality, reports, etc.).
- Represents the department with regard to related research and participates in professional development activities and programs.
- Mentors and/or provides guidance to students, faculty, or other staff working on research project(s) through training in related aspects of research techniques and analysis as needed; may provide daily oversight to less experienced staff or student researchers.
- Provides additional research project support as needed.
Qualifications
Combinations of related education and experience may be considered. Education beyond the minimum required may be substituted for work experience. Work experience beyond the minimum required may be substituted for education.
EDUCATION
Required
- Master’s degree preferably in research-oriented field such as statistics, public health/policy analysis, etc.
Preferred
- Master’s degree in social sciences, economics, public policy, or related field.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Required
- 3 years in related field.
Preferred
- Experience conducting research on equity, social justice, or related topics.
SKILLS
Required
- Proficient communication skills.
- Maintains a high degree of professionalism.
- Demonstrated time management and priority setting skills.
- Demonstrates a high commitment to quality.
- Possesses flexibility to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
- Seeks to acquire knowledge in area of specialty.
- Highly thorough and dependable.
- Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure.
- Strong knowledge and ability to apply qualitative and/or quantitative research skills.
- Familiarity with and openness to learn new qualitative and mixed methods.
- Knowledge and familiarity with various statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS, STATA) and qualitative research tools (e.g., NVivo).
Preferred
- Possesses knowledge of policy and drivers of economic opportunity and racial disparities.
- Ability to integrate a policy approach (i.e. to assess legislation) when assessing equity implications.
- Strong understanding of community engagement and participatory research approaches.
- Familiarity with GIS or other mapping tools for map creation.
- Strong understanding of equity and social justice issues.
- Understanding of quantitative and qualitative research skills.
Working Conditions / Demands
This role requires the ability to effectively communicate and to operate a computer and other standard office productivity equipment. The position involves sedentary work as well as periods of time moving around an office environment and the campus. The person in this role must be able to perform the essential functions with or without an accommodation.
Additional Information
This position is grant funded with expected annual renewals. Renewals are contingent on the availability of grant funds.
Work Location
IUPUI Campus
Indianapolis, Indiana
This position is eligible to work a hybrid schedule (mix between remote and in-person work), subject to change in the future based on university policy and business needs.
Advertised Salary
$55,000 – $65,000 per year based on experience.
Benefits Overview
For full-time staff employees, Indiana University offers a wide array of benefits including:
- Multiple plan options for medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Health Savings Account with generous IU contribution
- Life insurance, LTD, and AD&D options
- Base retirement plan contribution from IU, subject to vesting
- Additional supplemental retirement plan options
- Tuition benefit for IU classes
- 10 paid holidays per year
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Paid Parental Leave
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Learn more about our benefits by reviewing our online Benefits Brochure.
Job Classification
Career Level: Career
FLSA: Exempt
Job Function: Research
Job Family: Research Data Analysis
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