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Research Specialist II

Overview

The Department of Sociology at Princeton University seeks applicants for full-time post-baccalaureate research assistant positions in the Eviction Lab. Successful candidates will have a background in quantitative social science, economics, statistics, data science, and/or computer science.  

 

The Eviction Lab at Princeton University is an interdisciplinary research team who has built the first-ever national database of evictions in America. We have validated, mapped, and published our data through an interactive website (evictionlab.org). The Eviction Lab is currently working on a large number of studies on the prevalence, causes, and consequences of housing displacement. Research assistants will have access to novel and very large datasets not publicly released.

 

We seek self-driven, creative thinkers with strong quantitative skills to assist with research analysis and publication of research findings on housing instability, urban inequality, and public policy. Successful candidates must have previous experience managing and analyzing quantitative data using sophisticated statistical or computer programming techniques. Proficiency in R is required. Previous experience with Python, ArcGIS, web scraping, accessing data through APIs, advanced data visualization, managing large datasets, or working with administrative data is a plus. Previous coursework in sociology, urban studies, or housing instability is not required but useful.

 

This is a one-year term, benefits eligible position. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume with their application.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include:

  • Data collection, including outreach to courts and municipalities to request data, initiating Freedom of Information Act Requests, and other related tasks.
  • Preparing data for use in the Eviction Lab's database or for related Eviction Lab projects. This includes activities like cleaning data in R, writing code, reformatting files, validating data.
  • Tasks related to academic and other publications. These may include library research, collaborating with other Eviction Lab team members on research questions, producing data visualizations, or conducting statistical analyses.
  • Attending and contributing to team meetings, collaborating with Eviction Lab undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers. Responding to queries from other researchers and members of the public.
  •  

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent
  • 3+ years relevant experience
  • Experience managing and analyzing quantitative data using sophisticated statistical or computer programming techniques

  • Proficiency in R or Stata
  • Ability to apply rigorous data analysis techniques to real-world problems.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Python, ArcGIS, web scraping, accessing data through APIs, advanced data visualization, managing large datasets, or working with administrative data.

  • Previous coursework in sociology, urban studies, or housing instability.

 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Standard Weekly Hours

36.25

Eligible for Overtime

Yes

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

90 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Estimated Appointment End Date

6/2/2026

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver’s License Required

No

#LI-CN1

Average salary estimate

$70000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$60000K
$80000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Research Specialist II, Princeton University

Are you passionate about quantitative research and social issues? Join the Eviction Lab at Princeton University as a Research Specialist II! In this role, you'll be part of an interdisciplinary team that's breaking new ground with the first-ever national database of evictions in America. We focus on the causes and consequences of housing displacement and urban inequality. You'll dive deep into data analysis, cleaning, and preparing datasets that haven't been released publicly, all while using your skills in R and potentially Python and ArcGIS. If you thrive in a creative, data-driven environment and have a knack for statistical programming, we want you! Collaboration is key here, as you'll be engaging with other researchers and contributing to insightful publications. So if you have a bachelor's degree, at least three years of relevant experience, and a strong quantitative background, don't miss this opportunity to make a difference in public policy through data. Dive into a fulfilling role that challenges you intellectually and allows you to be part of meaningful social change with Princeton University. We can't wait to see what you bring to our team!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Research Specialist II Role at Princeton University
What are the responsibilities of the Research Specialist II at Princeton University's Eviction Lab?

As a Research Specialist II at Princeton University's Eviction Lab, your responsibilities will include data collection through outreach efforts, cleaning and preparing data for analysis using R, collaborating on academic publications, and contributing to team meetings. You'll also engage with other researchers on vital questions regarding housing instability.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Research Specialist II position at Princeton University?

To apply for the Research Specialist II position at Princeton University, you should hold a bachelor's degree and have at least 3 years of relevant experience in managing and analyzing quantitative data. Proficiency in R is a must, while skills in Python or ArcGIS will enhance your application.

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Is previous experience in sociology or urban studies required for the Research Specialist II role at the Eviction Lab?

While previous coursework in sociology, urban studies, or housing instability is not mandatory for the Research Specialist II role at the Eviction Lab, it is considered beneficial. A strong quantitative background and data analysis skills are the primary focus.

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What type of data will the Research Specialist II at PrincetonUniversity be working with?

The Research Specialist II at Princeton University's Eviction Lab will work with novel and large datasets related to housing instability and urban inequality, which have not been publicly released. This includes managing quantitative data and conducting detailed analyses.

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What is the application process for the Research Specialist II position at Princeton University's Eviction Lab?

Interested candidates for the Research Specialist II position at Princeton University's Eviction Lab should submit a cover letter along with their resume detailing their qualifications and experience relevant to the role. Ensure that you highlight your skills in data analysis and statistical programming like R.

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Common Interview Questions for Research Specialist II
Can you describe your experience with data analysis tools relevant to the Research Specialist II position?

Certainly! Highlight specific projects where you've used tools like R or Stata for analysis. Discuss any scenarios where you cleaned datasets, performed statistical modeling, or produced visualizations to tell a story from data.

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Why are you interested in working at the Eviction Lab?

Express your passion for social issues, particularly housing instability and urban inequality. Share specific aspects of the Eviction Lab’s work that resonate with you, such as their commitment to creating impactful change through data.

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How would you approach data collection for the Eviction Lab's projects?

Outline your process for effective data collection, such as how you would conduct outreach to municipalities, utilize Freedom of Information Act requests, and collaborate with colleagues for comprehensive data acquisition.

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Give an example of a challenging data problem you've encountered and how you resolved it.

Talk about a specific challenge involving data, such as missing values or integrating different data formats. Explain your step-by-step approach to addressing the issue and the outcome, showcasing your problem-solving skills.

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What statistical methods do you prefer when analyzing quantitative data?

Mention specific statistical methods you have experience with, such as regression analysis or hypothesis testing. Explain why you use these methods in particular and how they apply to real-world issues you’ve worked on.

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How do you handle team collaboration in research settings?

Share examples of past collaborative projects where you contributed to team-driven outcomes. Emphasize your communication skills and how you facilitate productive discussions within diverse teams.

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What experience do you have with advanced data visualization techniques?

Discuss tools like ggplot2 in R, Tableau, or Python libraries to create compelling visuals. Include examples of how you've used visualizations to present findings clearly and effectively to stakeholders.

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In what ways do you stay updated on current trends in sociology and housing studies?

Talk about how you engage with academic journals, attend workshops or webinars, and participate in forums to discuss advancements in sociology and housing issues. Continual learning is vital for this role.

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Describe a situation where you had to work with large datasets. How did you manage it?

Provide details of your experience managing large datasets, including your organization techniques, software used, and any potential issues you faced and how you overcame them for successful analysis.

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What role does public policy play in your view of housing instability?

Express your understanding of the connection between public policy and housing issues. Share examples of how data can influence policy decisions and improve social outcomes, reflecting your alignment with the Eviction Lab's objectives.

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As a world-renowned research university, Princeton seeks to achieve the highest levels of distinction in the discovery and transmission of knowledge and understanding. At the same time, Princeton is distinctive among research universities in its c...

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 20, 2025

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