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Policy Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Howard University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

... policies and procedures. This position reports directly to the Executive Director of HPS-CFE ... PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES While a research assistant is expected to contribute in many ways to the ...

Howard University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

The Undergraduate Student Researcher supports ongoing research activities within the laboratory or ... policies, including ethical and regulatory standards. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: * Assist in the ...

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Policy Research Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$6

$19

$32

How much do policy research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for policy research assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a policy research assistant do?

A Policy Research Assistant supports policy analysts and researchers by gathering, organizing, and analyzing data relevant to public policies. They review academic literature, draft reports, prepare briefing materials, and assist in the development of policy recommendations. Their work helps policymakers make informed decisions by providing evidence-based information and insights. Policy Research Assistants often work in government agencies, think tanks, nonprofits, or research organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a policy research assistant?

To thrive as a Policy Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and a relevant degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools (such as Excel or SPSS), academic databases, and report writing software is typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively are standout soft skills. These qualifications enable effective data gathering, clear policy analysis, and high-quality support for policy development initiatives.

What are some common challenges faced by policy research assistants when gathering and analyzing data for policy reports?

Policy Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as accessing up-to-date and reliable data, synthesizing information from varied sources, and ensuring objectivity in their analysis. Working under tight deadlines while supporting multiple projects can also be demanding. Successful assistants develop strong organizational skills and collaborate closely with senior researchers and policy analysts to ensure their findings are accurate and actionable.

What is the difference between Policy Research Assistant vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy Research AssistantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, think tanksGovernment agencies, think tanks, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageSupports policy development through research and data collectionAnalyzes policies, prepares reports, and provides recommendations

While both roles involve policy work, Policy Research Assistants primarily focus on data collection and research support, whereas Policy Analysts analyze policies and develop recommendations. The roles often overlap in skills and work environment, but Policy Analysts typically have more responsibility for policy evaluation and strategic input.

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Policy Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Policy Research Assistant job openings:

Policy Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,557 per year, or $20 per hour.

Research Assistant (Epidemiology)

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Johns Hopkins University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

We are seeking a Research Assistant who will oversee data collection, data organization, and/or data management or similar functions/tasks for research study(ies) in support of a PI or a research team.
The Research Assistant will collaborate closely with the Program for Implementation and Equity Research in the Department of Epidemiology. The research portfolio includes domestic HIV implementation science studies funded by the NIH.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
  • Run routine and ad hoc reports.
  • Use standard tools and computer programs to review data.
  • Assist with data cleaning measures to ensure accuracy of data and preparation of tables.
  • Lead basic activities such as data collection and data entry.
  • May lead specific tasks and develop processes to ensure study activities occur effectively and efficiently.
  • May conduct literature searches to support faculty in research efforts.
  • May design and format papers/publications.
  • May assist PIs in writing summaries of papers for release as policy briefs or other channels.
  • Other duties as assigned.

In addition to the duties described above
  • Collect data and generate reports and models.
  • Run models, analyze model results, and prepare reports on the analysis.
  • Conduct analyses in support of the assigned research project or study. Conduct statistical analyses using standard and statistical software packages.
  • Design and prepare tables to illustrate analytic findings.
  • Manage or contribute to entry of data in the assigned database.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field.
  • Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond a high school diploma/graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree or relevant professional experience.

Technical Skills & Expected Level of Proficiency
  • Analytical Skills - Awareness
  • Attention to Detail - Awareness
  • Data Management and Analysis - Awareness
  • Formatting and Layout Proficiency - Awareness
  • Information Gathering - Awareness
  • Oral and Written Communications - Awareness
  • Organizational Skills - Awareness

The core technical skills listed are most essential; additional technical skills may be required based on specific division or department needs.
Classified Title: Research Assistant
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/03/CD
Starting Salary Range: $17.20 ) $30.30 HRLY (Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Casual / On Call
Schedule: Hours Vary: Up to 27 hours per week
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Remote
Department name: Epidemiology
Personnel area: School of Public Health

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About Johns Hopkins University

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Gilman believed that teaching and research go hand in hand—that success in one depends on success in the other—and that a modern university must do both well. He also believed that sharing our knowledge and discoveries would help make the world a better place. In 145 years, we haven’t strayed from that vision. This is still a destination for excellent, ambitious scholars and a world leader in teaching and research. Distinguished professors mentor students in the arts and music, humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering, international studies, education, business, and the health professions. Those same faculty members, along with their colleagues at the university’s Applied Physics Laboratory, have made us the nation’s leader in federal research and development funding every year since 1979. That’s a fitting distinction for America’s first research university, a place that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1876

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