Harvard University is seeking an experienced Senior Research Manager to join the Center for Education Policy Research (CEPR) at the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). This opportunity is ideal for professionals with a strong background in quantitative research, education policy, and data analysis who are passionate about improving education systems through evidence-based decision-making.

The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $100,000 to $105,000 per year, a hybrid work structure, and the opportunity to collaborate with education leaders, researchers, and policymakers around the world. The role focuses on managing high-impact research projects that support education policy development and school improvement initiatives.

About Harvard University and the Harvard Graduate School of Education

Working at Harvard University means joining a global academic community committed to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Harvard promotes a collaborative and inclusive workplace where employees can develop their skills while contributing to meaningful research and societal progress.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is widely recognized for its dedication to transforming education through research, teaching, and policy leadership. HGSE brings together educators, scholars, and professionals who share a common goal: improving educational opportunities and outcomes for learners worldwide.

Many professionals choose HGSE because of its strong mission-driven environment, outstanding leadership, and vibrant community that values diversity, collaboration, and intellectual growth.

About the Center for Education Policy Research (CEPR)

The Center for Education Policy Research (CEPR) plays a crucial role in advancing education reform through data-driven research. The center collaborates with school districts, charter school networks, state education agencies, and international partners to develop rigorous research that informs education policy and strategic decision-making.

CEPR’s core philosophy is that education leaders should rely on evidence rather than assumptions when making decisions that affect students, teachers, and school systems. By applying advanced research methods and data analytics, the center helps education institutions understand what works, what does not, and how systems can be improved.

Through innovative research models and partnerships, CEPR aims to transform education systems and ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and thrive.

Job Summary: Senior Research Manager

The Senior Research Manager (SRM) will play a central role in managing and advancing CEPR’s research initiatives. The position involves overseeing analytical work across multiple projects, guiding research teams, and ensuring the quality and accuracy of all research outputs.

One of the key responsibilities of the role will involve managing projects related to a research partnership with an education nonprofit organization in the Philippines and its government partners. These projects aim to support school improvement efforts and develop a long-term research agenda that strengthens education systems.

In addition to managing international projects, the Senior Research Manager may contribute to other CEPR initiatives and supervise Research Analysts across multiple studies.

Key Responsibilities

The Senior Research Manager will oversee the full research lifecycle, from project design to publication. Major responsibilities include the following:

Leading Research and Analytics

The SRM will lead the analytical work across several research projects, including:

• Developing research questions and study designs

• Writing grant proposals and securing funding

• Managing data collection and analysis

• Producing reports and academic publications

The role requires strong expertise in quantitative methods and statistical analysis to ensure research findings are accurate and impactful.

Managing Research Teams

The Senior Research Manager will supervise Research Analysts and support their professional development. This includes mentoring analysts, providing training in research methods, and organizing workshops to strengthen analytical and technical skills.

Team leadership is a central aspect of the role, ensuring that research staff develop their expertise while contributing effectively to ongoing projects.

Training and Technical Support

Another major component of the role involves providing technical guidance on research methods and statistical techniques. The SRM will train both internal team members and external education agency staff on selecting appropriate analytical approaches and using data tools effectively.

Project Planning and Coordination

The Senior Research Manager will be responsible for ensuring that research projects are completed successfully and on schedule. Key tasks include:

• Creating project work plans

• Coordinating team activities across multiple research initiatives

• Managing project deadlines

• Leading collaborative meetings between researchers, project directors, and principal investigators

The role also requires working closely with leadership teams and external partners to develop strategies for future research initiatives.

Ensuring Research Quality and Integrity

Maintaining high research standards is essential for CEPR’s mission. The Senior Research Manager will design rigorous studies, identify potential weaknesses in research designs, and ensure that all analyses meet strict quality standards.

Responsibilities also include reviewing statistical code, verifying analytical outputs, and establishing protocols that ensure research findings are reproducible and transparent.

Conducting Advanced Data Analysis

The SRM will also contribute directly to analytical work when necessary, including complex statistical programming and data analysis. This involves managing large-scale education datasets and using advanced statistical tools to answer critical research questions.

Publishing and Presenting Research

The Senior Research Manager will contribute to research publications and present findings at conferences, meetings, and professional forums. Communicating research insights to both technical and non-technical audiences is a key responsibility of the position.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet several core qualifications to be considered for the role.

Educational Background

Candidates must hold an advanced degree (master’s level or higher) in one of the following fields:

• Education

• Public Policy

• Economics

• Statistics

Alternatively, candidates with at least five years of directly related professional experience may also qualify.

Professional Experience

Applicants must demonstrate:

• At least two years of management experience leading a team

• A minimum of five years of experience in quantitative research, including data management, analysis, and report writing

• Strong experience with Stata statistical software

• Experience working with large-scale education datasets

Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

Although not mandatory, several additional qualifications are highly desirable for this role.

These include:

• A PhD in quantitative social science methods

• Experience training others in data analysis and programming

• Experience collaborating with state education agencies, K–12 school districts, or higher education institutions

• Knowledge of program evaluation methods, including causal inference and impact evaluation

• Experience managing research partnerships and engaging stakeholders

• Experience completing full research projects from concept to publication

• Additional programming expertise in R or Python

Candidates who can translate technical findings into accessible materials for non-technical audiences will have a significant advantage.

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Recruitment Process

Candidates who pass the initial screening stage will be required to complete several evaluation steps, including:

• A case study assessment

• Submission of sample Stata code

• A writing sample

• Academic transcripts

Final-stage candidates will also present their previous research work.

Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume combined into a single PDF document, clearly stating that they meet the required qualifications.

Work Structure and Location

The Senior Research Manager position follows a hybrid work model. Employees will work:

• Three days per week in the Cambridge office

• Two days remotely

The work schedule and location may be adjusted based on operational needs and university policies.

It is important to note that Harvard University cannot provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Salary and Contract Details

The position offers a competitive compensation package.

Key details include:

• Salary: $100,000 – $105,000 annually, depending on experience

• Work schedule: 35 hours per week

• Contract duration: One-year term appointment with strong possibility of renewal

• Salary grade: Level 057

Benefits and Employee Support

Harvard provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees’ wellbeing and professional development.

Key benefits include:

• Generous paid leave and parental leave

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance starting on the first day of employment

• Retirement plans with university contributions

• Mental health and wellbeing resources

• Support programs for families and caregivers

• Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities

• Commuter benefits and campus discounts

These benefits help employees maintain a healthy balance between their professional responsibilities and personal lives.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

Harvard University is committed to maintaining a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, and free from discrimination. The university actively seeks talent from diverse backgrounds and ensures that all employees are treated fairly regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

This commitment to diversity strengthens Harvard’s academic mission and supports a thriving academic community.

Conclusion

The Senior Research Manager position at Harvard University’s Center for Education Policy Research presents a unique opportunity for experienced researchers to contribute to meaningful education reforms. By combining rigorous research methods with real-world partnerships, the role allows professionals to influence education policies and practices at both national and international levels.

With competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and the opportunity to collaborate with leading scholars and policymakers, this role is well suited for individuals committed to improving education through research and data-driven decision-making.

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