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Policy Researcher Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Collects and analyzes basic research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures * Assists with the development of research ...

Senior Researcher

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$75K - $105K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Researcher to join our Research and Innovation team at Slipstream. We are a ... policies, and approaches. You want to creatively address climate change using your expertise and ...

Postdoctoral Researcher Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAM ORED - STEM ... Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university's ability to employ ...

Postdoctoral Researcher Position Type:Other Academic Department:LSUAM ORED - STEM - National Lab ... Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university's ability to employ ...

Understanding and assessing the impact of potential credit policy changes across various portfolios through research and analysis of credit data and trends related to policy risk topics. * Partnering ...

We are seeking a Senior Researcher to join our Research and Innovation team at Slipstream. We are a ... policies, and approaches. You want to creatively address climate change using your expertise and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Policy Researcher information

See Wisconsin salary details

$30.3K

$114.2K

$166K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy researcher in Wisconsin is $114,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $155,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 political science, public policy, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), data visualization tools, and academic databases is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail set standout researchers apart. These skills are vital for producing accurate, actionable insights that inform policy decisions and drive effective advocacy.

What does a policy researcher do?

A Policy Researcher analyzes data, evaluates policies, and provides recommendations to help organizations or governments make informed decisions. They conduct research on social, economic, or political issues, gather and interpret data, and produce reports or briefing materials. Their work often involves staying updated on current policy debates, collaborating with stakeholders, and presenting their findings to decision-makers. Policy Researchers play a crucial role in shaping effective and evidence-based public policies.

What is the difference between Policy Researcher vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy ResearcherPolicy Analyst
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, think tanks, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in research-focused roles within policy developmentInvolved in analyzing, developing, and recommending policies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in policyUnderstanding policy analysis and development roles

Policy Researchers focus on conducting in-depth research, data collection, and analysis to inform policy decisions. Policy Analysts interpret research findings, evaluate policy options, and develop recommendations for policymakers. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, Policy Researchers are more research-oriented, whereas Policy Analysts are more involved in applying research to policy formulation and advocacy.

What are some common challenges policy researchers face when translating complex findings into actionable recommendations?

Policy Researchers often grapple with distilling complex data and nuanced findings into clear, concise recommendations that are easily understood by policymakers and stakeholders. Balancing accuracy with accessibility can be challenging, as oversimplification may lead to misinterpretation, while too much detail can overwhelm decision-makers. Additionally, researchers must consider diverse stakeholder perspectives and ensure their recommendations are both practical and aligned with policy goals, often under tight deadlines. Developing strong communication skills and collaborating closely with policy analysts, subject matter experts, and advocacy teams can help address these challenges.
What are popular job titles related to Policy Researcher jobs in Wisconsin? For Policy Researcher jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Policy Researcher jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Researcher jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,160 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:Academic StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Researcher IJob Summary:

The University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciencesis an engine ofscientific discovery, with researchers working across the spectrum of agricultural and life sciences.Academically, the college offers research-based, hands-on teaching of undergraduates; world-class graduate programs rich in research and project assistantships; and short courses, workshops and other programs. Ouroutreachactivities bring the work of the college to Wisconsin businesses, organizations and communities throughout the state. Learn moreabout CALS.

The Researcher I will participate in research related to organic agriculture production systems. This position will support field research through: 1) organization and maintenance of experimental protocols; 2) supervision of undergraduate hourly support; 3) organization and reporting of experimental data; 4) supervision of field activities; 5) overseeing supply purchases; 6) participating in the development of outreach materials; and 7) contributing broadly to the mission of the Organic Grain Research and Outreach program. The Research Specialist will be a significant team member of the Organic Agriculture Research and Outreach Program.

For more information on this cutting edge research and the Silva Lab, please visit https://silvalab.cals.wisc.edu/

This position requires work to be completed onsite, both at the UW-Madison campus and outlying research stations and farm.

  • 40% Collects and analyzes basic research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures.

  • 15% Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities and assists with publications.

  • 10% Trains individuals and groups on equipment operations, research protocols, and techniques within a specialized laboratory or research area.

  • 10% Assists with the development of research methodologies and procedures.

  • 10% Identifies concerns and recommends solutions to leadership.

  • 5% Assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.

  • 20% Develops outreach and extension materials.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding
  • Collects and analyzes basic research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures
  • Assists with the development of research methodologies and procedures
  • Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities and assists with publications
  • Identifies concerns and recommends solutions to leadership
  • Trains individuals and groups on equipment operations, research protocols, and techniques within a specialized laboratory or research area
Department:

Department of Plant Pathology

Compensation:

$55,000 - $65,000

Required Qualifications:
  • Field research experience in agronomy and plant pathology under organic management.

  • Course work in organic agriculture.

  • Organizing, maintaining, and reporting experimental data and protocols.

  • Participating in the development of outreach materials.

  • Criminal Background Check may be required.

  • Evaluation Period may be required.

  • This position requires work to be completed onsite, both at the UW-Madison campus and outlying research stations and farm.

  • Ability to work outdoors in variable temperatures.

  • Ability to work extended hours as needed to support operational needs, special projects, or peak workloads.

  • Ability to lift 50 pounds.

  • A valid driver's license that meets UW Risk Management Standards.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Overseeing supply purchases.

  • Organic Agriculture Certificate

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Plant Pathology

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please click on the "I am a current employee" button or "I am not a current employee" button under Apply Now. You will be prompted to upload the following documents.

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume

Please note, there is only one attachment field. You must upload all your documents into the one attachment field.

Finalists will be asked to provide contact information (phone and email) for three references, one of which must be a current or former supervisor. References will not be contacted without prior notice.

It's important that your cover letter and resume reflect your experience for this position related to the Qualifications section. Your application materials will be used during our evaluation to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of the appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position.

Contact Information:

For questions, please contact Amy Ducy at amy.ducy@wisc.edu.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.


The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.


To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.


Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.