Research Specialist

The Sheila and Robert Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth seeks applications for the position of Research Specialist (a year-round, full-time position). We seek candidates who have strong interest and ability to perform quantitative research that aims to shed light on the types of policies and solutions that will contribute to enhanced opportunity and flourishing in North Dakota, the Midwest, and the U.

S. The successful candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary team that contributes to the Challey Institute’s vision of identifying bottom up solutions aimed at expanding opportunity and flourishing. Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm 1 day/week remote optional Advertised Salary: $57,000 - $75,000 +, depending on experience Job Responsibilities: Perform quantitative and statistical research aimed at understanding barriers to opportunity and flourishing in North Dakota, the Midwest, and the Nation Write policy and research briefs that identify implications of proposed policies Engage in public writing to amplify the results of research performed Speak at local events, with stakeholders, and with media to increase understanding of the types of policies and solutions that contribute to opportunity and flourishing Collaborate with faculty in performing research aimed at opportunity and flourishing Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree in economics, data science, public policy, statistics, or a related field expected by December 2026 Excellent oral and written communications skills Strong quantitative skills An understanding of and ability to apply statistical methods to a wide variety of research questions An appreciation of the role of markets and the private sector in solving important societal problems Knowledge of the ways that policies and their unintended effects can influence economic opportunity An ability to manage multiple projects at once An ability and interest in amplifying research findings by writing in public outlets Preferred Qualifications: Experience in performing economic, statistical, policy, or related research Experience in analyzing the impacts of public policy on society Experience writing policy briefs and op-eds Experience engaging with different stakeholders Experience in presenting research and speaking to internal and/or external audiences Nature of the Research Positio n: The successful candidate for this position will be expected to perform research on emerging issues affecting North Dakota and those deemed important to regional stakeholders.

Moreover, the candidate will be expected to nimbly adjust their research priorities based on the needs of various state and regional stakeholders. Although the issues researched in this position will largely be determined based on current state/regional needs, examples of the types of issues researched may include: Examining tax policy and its impacts on growth, entrepreneurship, and innovation Assessing existing or proposed regulation and its impacts on economic opportunity Identifying occupational licensing requirements in different industries and their impacts on opportunity and pricing Identifying the types of policies that lead to a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem Examining various sectors of the North Dakota economy, their economic contributions to the state, and policies that enhance their success Identifying challenges unique to rural areas and potential solutions Examining challenges facing North Dakota and the Midwest (e.

g. attracting and retaining qualified workers, providing healthcare for rural areas) and policies to mitigate them Identifying and addressing barriers to opportunity on Tribal Lands Quantifying the impact of trade and trade policy on North Dakota, the Midwest, and the Nation Assessing the impacts of proposed policies at the national, state, and local levels (e.

g. policies regulating AI, labor regulations, immigration) Applicant Materials Required: Cover Letter Resume Statement of research experience and interests Three references Optional: Example of one of your research papers or publications. Our commitment to caring for our employees isn’t just words—it’s proven. In NDSU’s most recent Gallup Engagement Survey, our strengths centered on care and development.

“ My supervisor, or someone at work, cares about me as a person ” and “ I have the opportunities to learn and grow”, were noted as top drivers. This reflects the culture you’ll experience here. NDSU OFFERS OUTSTANDING BENEFITS! Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success. Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits: Health & Wellness 100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation Exceptional Retirement Plan Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.

5% up to an impressive 12.26% , depending on position (One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!)

• Your future is a priority, and it shows. Time Away & Support Generous annual leave , sick leave , and 10 paid holidays Employee Assistance Program for confidential support Supportive work-life balance Education Benefits That Grow With You Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year) 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents Additional Optional Benefits Supplemental Life, Dental & Vision Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care) Supplemental Retirement Plans Explore Full Benefit Details: Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU About Us: North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment. NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country. NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live. NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach. Equal Opportunity Statement: NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, status as a U.S. veteran, or participation in lawful activity off the employer's premises during nonworking hours which is not in direct conflict with the essential business-related interests of the employer, as applicable. Direct inquiries to Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 100, 701-231-7708, [email protected] . No Smoking Notice: As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10. Veteran’s Preference Notice: This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran’s Preference requirements. Reasonable Accommodation Information: North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or [email protected] .