Research Associate

About Rice:

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

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Position Summary:

The Baker Institute is seeking a Research Associate (RA) to support energy policy research in the institute’s Center for Energy Studies (CES). The RA assists in conducting research, collecting data, performing statistical analysis, proofreading, and drafting articles, reports, and other publications. In addition, the RA may assist in intermediate administrative functions.

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented and analytical professional with strong technical expertise in data visualization and statistical analysis, complemented by excellent communication skills and the ability to translate complex data into clear, impactful insights.

Founded in 1993, Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy has established itself as one of the premier nonpartisan public policy think tanks in the country. As an integral part of Rice University, the Baker Institute has a strong track record of achievement based on the work of its fellows, scholars, Rice faculty scholars, and staff.

Workplace Requirements .

This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person on campus. Per Rice policy 440 , work arrangements may be subject to change.

Proposed Hiring Range : $60,000/yr

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree

Two or more (2+) years related research experience In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Skills:

Proficiency in Tableau and/or PowerBI

Knowledge of Python or R

Experience with Census data, shapefiles, geodatabases, and geoprocessing tools

Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including Excel

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong analytical and research skills

Ability to build reports

Excellent presentation skills

Preferences:

Masters

Related work experience in energy economics and/or policy studies

Essential Functions:

Participate in the planning and implementation of research projects and data analysis

Extract data for current and new GIS dashboards

Use Excel and statistical software to compile and analyze data

Report and discuss research findings

Ensure information presented is valid and accurate

Develop presentations and reports

Participate in staff meetings

Perform other assigned duties

Additional Functions

May supervise student interns

Write conference reports/summaries for Baker Institute events

Coordinate and implement proofreading of research-related documents

Assist with preparing presentation materials for CES fellows and scholars

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

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Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in touch with Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu . Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.