Associate Director of Research

Strong strategic thinking, effective team coordination, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights are vital. For education policy roles like this, inspiring collaboration among researchers and stakeholders accelerates evidence-based decision-making, which drives impactful educational reforms.

Unlike senior research associates who focus mainly on data collection and analysis, the Associate Director leads project portfolios, shapes strategic vision, and ensures analytic quality. This role demands higher-level oversight, stakeholder engagement, and steering research towards policy influence.

This position often opens doors to executive research roles, leadership in policy institutes, or academic professorships. The blend of management and subject matter expertise builds a foundation for directing large-scale research initiatives or influencing educational policy on a broader scale.

Credentials like Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or advanced degrees in education policy or economics can be highly valued. Local employers, especially in the Boston metro area, often look for candidates with strong quantitative skills and experience using statistical software prevalent in regional research institutions.

Malden offers proximity to Boston’s research corridor, with convenient public transit options like the MBTA Orange Line easing commutes. However, peak-hour traffic can be dense, so flexible scheduling or remote work options are beneficial for maintaining work-life balance in senior research positions.

The Boston metro area has a dense cluster of universities and policy centers, increasing competition for senior research roles. Candidates with proven leadership in managing complex projects and strong publication records stand out in this talent-rich environment.

Working at the American Economic Association demands a high level of analytical rigor and contribution to the economics research community. The role emphasizes advancing impactful research portfolios and fostering collaborations that align with the association’s commitment to evidence-based economic policy.

Balancing diverse stakeholder goals while ensuring methodological rigor poses a challenge. The Associate Director must navigate multi-state policy environments, adapt research frameworks to varying data quality, and promote scalable insights that influence education policy nationwide.

Based on market data for similar senior research roles in the Boston area, salaries typically range from $110,000 to $145,000 annually. Compensation often reflects experience depth, leadership responsibilities, and the candidate’s impact on strategic research initiatives.