Job Description

This position will provide leadership and analytical support for a portfolio of externally funded, applied social science projects at the University of Oklahoma’s Institute for Public Policy Research & Analysis (IPPRA). The work will focus on the following: extreme weather, emergency management, fire management, and energy security. The role will involve regular outreach and engagement with local, state, and federal officials. A key responsibility will be strengthening the flow of information from operations to research, and from research back to operations. 

Learn more about us at ou.edu/ippra. 

The ideal candidate for this position will be a mid-career professional that can thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative team environment. They will be a self-starter who is detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. The candidate will have a significant background in social science, an understanding of policy processes, and familiarity with basic quantitative and/or qualitative research methods. Strong writing and interpersonal skills will also be essential. 

Job Duties: 

• Coordinate and lead interactions with scientific and operational groups to enhance two-way communication and ensure effective exchange of operational and research insights
• Lead the planning, organizing, and supporting workshops and meetings with key policy actors, including local, state, and federal officials
• Oversee quantitative and qualitative data collection efforts, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups
• Develop and deliver presentations of research findings to stakeholders and research partners
• Contribute to academic and non-academic writing, including policy reports, briefing materials, and journal articles
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and students as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project and IPPRA goals

Minimum Required Education and Experience:

• A Master’s degree in a social science field such as Public Policy, Political Science, Emergency Management, or a closely related area
• Significant experience coordinating or supporting stakeholder engagement with groups such as government agencies, community partners, or scientific teams
• Demonstrated ability to prepare written summaries, reports, briefing materials, or presentations for a range of audiences
• Experience collecting or working with qualitative or quantitative data, such as surveys, interviews, or focus groups

Preferred Skills and Attributes:

• Strong organizational and communication skills, with comfort working alongside scientific, operational, and policy partners
• Experience supporting or managing data collection efforts, including surveys, interviews, or focus groups
• Clear and confident writing and presenting for both technical and nontechnical audiences

To apply, please submit the following to Interfolio: https://apply.interfolio.com/179729 and to Dr. Joseph Ripberger ([email protected]):

(1) a curriculum vitae or resume; (2) list of 3 references; and (3) a cover letter describing relevant experience, skills, and qualifications.

The University of Oklahoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.