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Mercor

Public Policy Expert - Policy Research

New York, NY · On-site +1

$50 - $60/hr

Craft policy research tasks involving legislative tracking, federal budget data extraction, and regulatory database searches across government portals. * Create detailed evaluation rubrics for AI ...

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Policy Research information

What is policy research?

Policy research is the process of systematically investigating and analyzing public policies, programs, or proposals to provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders. It involves collecting and evaluating data, assessing the effectiveness of current policies, and exploring alternative approaches to address social, economic, or political issues. Policy researchers work in government agencies, think tanks, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations to inform decision-making and improve outcomes for communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Policy Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a background in public policy or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS or Stata, as well as proficiency in literature review databases and policy analysis frameworks, is commonly required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are crucial soft skills that help convey complex information clearly. These competencies enable effective evidence-based recommendations and impactful contributions to policy development.

How does a Policy Researcher typically collaborate with policymakers and other stakeholders in their daily work?

Policy Researchers often work closely with policymakers, advocacy groups, and subject matter experts to ensure their findings are both practical and actionable. Daily tasks may include drafting reports, presenting research results in meetings, and responding to feedback from stakeholders. Collaboration is key, as researchers must balance rigorous analysis with the real-world needs and constraints of the organizations and communities they serve. Regular communication and teamwork help ensure that research informs policy decisions effectively and remains relevant to pressing issues.

What is the difference between Policy Research vs Policy Analysis?

AspectPolicy ResearchPolicy Analysis
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, government agenciesGovernment agencies, consulting firms, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for gathering data and understanding issuesUsed for evaluating options and making recommendations

Policy Research involves gathering data, conducting studies, and understanding issues, while Policy Analysis focuses on evaluating options and providing recommendations based on research findings. Both roles often overlap but serve different stages in the policy development process.

More about Policy Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Policy Research jobs? Cities with the most Policy Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Research jobs? The most popular types of Policy Research jobs are:
What states have the most Policy Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Policy Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Policy Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Research jobs are:
Policy Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Policy Research Fellow

Hindu American Foundation

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Organization Background/Culture
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is the nation's oldest and largest non-profit advocacy organization for the Hindu American community, representing over 3.5 million Hindu Americans. Established in 2003, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is the pre-eminent voice for Hindu Americans.
HAF advances the understanding of Hinduism to secure the rights and dignity of Hindu Americans now and for generations to come by providing:
  1. accurate and engaging educational resources about Hinduism and Hindu Americans
  2. impactful trainings, advocacy and services that protect and promote religious liberty, free expression, equality and justice
  3. critical and creative programs empowering Hindu Americans to sustain their culture and identity

Position Summary
HAF is seeking an enthusiastic Policy Research Fellow to join our team! In this role, you will work closely with the policy research team to conduct research, analysis, and writing in support of HAF's public policy issues, with an emphasis on geopolitics, extremism and national security. This is a full-time, year-long remote fellowship with the possibility of renewing at the end of the year.
Essential Duties
The ideal candidate will be hard-working, dependable, detail-oriented, able to work independently and as part of a team, and professional with strong communication and writing skills. We are looking for a professional who wants to make a difference and contribute to HAF's mission in the field of public policy and policy research. The successful candidate will be able to perform the following duties with or without reasonable accommodations:
  1. Research, analyze, and write reports on policy topics on terrorism, extremism, hate, and other threats to Hindu Americans.
  2. Utilize software platforms and discern sources to ensure high-quality research.
  3. Find, collect, input and collate data across databases, information sources, survey responses, and other data sources; ensures data quality; clean existing data for consistency and accuracy.
  4. Develop data visualizations for diverse audiences.
  5. Prepare reports, charts, and/or graphs for briefs and presentations that synthesize complex topics for lay audiences.
  6. Provide research, writing, analysis, and proofreading support to the Policy Department for the creation of policy briefs, fact sheets, reports, articles, speeches, presentations, and other documents.
  7. Provide additional logistical support as needed for the Policy Research Department.

Preferred Education and Experience
The ideal candidate is self-motivated and enthusiastic about supporting the rights, safety, and security of Hindus. They should also have:
  1. Bachelor's degree in the social sciences or humanities, including but not limited to International Relations, Security Studies, Global Studies, Political Science, Policy, Government, Sociology, Legal Studies, Religion, History, Humanities, South Asian Studies or a similar field (required).
  2. Master's degree or currently enrolled in a master's program in a relevant field, or 2 years experience in an employed position or internship involving research and writing in international issues, politics, and/or religions.
  3. Strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills, including the ability to write both for professional and general audiences.
  4. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  5. Desire to contribute meaningfully in meetings and to project development.
  6. Self starter with the ability to complete tasks independently with minimal supervision and in a timely manner.
  7. Organized and able to juggle multiple projects simultaneously.
  8. Presents themselves professionally in virtual and/or in person meetings with external stakeholders.
  9. Collaborative in a team environment to achieve department goals.
  10. Fluency in platforms such as Google Workspace, Asana, Slack, Zoom, Excel, PowerPoint, and database systems.
  11. Experience with data entry and data management.
  12. Working knowledge of South Asia, India, Indic languages, or the Hindu diaspora preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements
To perform the essential duties of this role, incumbents must be able to perform the following activities with or without accommodations:
  1. Sit or stand for prolonged periods.
  2. Operate computer, including viewing a computer monitor, for extended periods.

PLEASE NOTE: This job description is not meant to cover or include all the tasks, duties, or responsibilities the employee may be required to perform. The listed duties, activities, and requirements can change at any time, with or without notice.
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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