Director, Research (Remote)

As the Director, Research at DataKind, your core responsibilities will include conducting comprehensive research to identify integration needs in higher education data, publishing white papers and articles to drive thought leadership, and applying research insights to develop experimentation frameworks. Additionally, you'll establish measurement strategies and represent DataKind at various events, ensuring our voice is heard in the industry.

For the Director, Research role at DataKind, candidates should possess a PhD in Education, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related field, along with over 8 years of experience in research leadership within the education technology landscape. At least 3 years of team management experience and a strong portfolio of published research will greatly enhance your application.

The Director, Research at DataKind will play a crucial role in improving student graduation outcomes through innovative research that drives systemic change in higher education institutions. Your insights will directly influence strategic decision-making and foster collaboration among key stakeholders, ultimately helping to transform the educational landscape.

DataKind offers a range of support for its employees in the Director, Research position, including genuine flexibility with PTO, comprehensive wellness benefits, professional development funding, and a culture that values growth and connection. We strive to create an environment where you can thrive while making a significant impact on society.

The Director, Research position is vital to DataKind's mission as it leads our efforts in harnessing data science for social impact, specifically within the education sector. By advancing research and insights, you will help shape policies and practices that contribute to equitable educational outcomes, aligning perfectly with our core values of inclusivity and service.

In your answer, highlight specific research projects you've led, focusing on outcomes and impact. Mention how your work contributed to strategic decision-making within the educational sector.

Discuss the methodologies you use to maintain research quality, such as peer reviews, collaboration with experts, and ongoing stakeholder feedback. Emphasize your commitment to ethical research practices.

Illustrate your ability to distill complex information into clear narratives. Provide examples of previous publications or presentations where you effectively conveyed research insights to diverse audiences.

Share a specific instance of collaborating with academic institutions or industry leaders. Elaborate on the collaborative process and how it enhanced project outcomes while advancing shared goals.

Explain your methods of staying informed, such as participating in conferences, reading relevant publications, or engaging with professional networks. Highlight your commitment to lifelong learning in the field.

Discuss your overarching principles that guide your research activities, including integrity, inclusivity, and societal impact. Mention how these principles align with DataKind's mission and values.

Provide examples of leadership strategies you've employed, such as fostering collaboration, providing mentorship, and encouraging professional development. Stress the importance of setting clear goals and celebrating achievements.

Talk about specific KPIs and metrics you use to assess the outcomes of your research. Explain how you analyze data to inform future research directions and decision-making.

Reflect on a specific challenge—perhaps a funding issue or stakeholder resistance—and describe the thoughtful strategies you employed to navigate the situation while ensuring project continuity.

Articulate your view on the importance of research as a tool for advocating for equitable practices within the education system. Provide examples of how your work has contributed to this goal in the past.