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Policy Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Council of State Governments

Policy Analyst

Decatur, GA · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

As a Policy Analyst with CSG South, you'll turn research into action, applying analytical rigor and professional discipline to help public servants make informed, impactful decisions. We're seeking a ...

Council of State Governments

Policy Analyst

Decatur, GA · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

As a Policy Analyst with CSG South, you'll turn research into action, applying analytical rigor and professional discipline to help public servants make informed, impactful decisions.We're seeking a ...

City of New York

Policy Analyst

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Policy Research Unit works to review, monitor, evaluate, address, and implement a diverse set of policies affecting the for-hire transportation industry and the communities it serves. Recent ...

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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?

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

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

EJP Policy & Research Team Application

Education Justice Project

Champaign, IL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Education Justice Project (EJP) is a unit of the College of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a comprehensive college-in-prison program. The mission of EJP is to build a model college-in-prison program that demonstrates the positive effects of higher education on incarcerated students, their families, the communities to which they return, the host institution, and society as a whole. To accomplish this mission, EJP developed several programs and initiatives, including a Policy & Research Division.
The mission of EJP's Policy & Research Division is to educate and equip relevant stakeholders with knowledge, skills, and confidence to produce research and practice civic engagement that promotes equity-focused and evidence-based policymaking related to higher education in prison, reentry, and other relevant issues. Our team is supported by members across the country who are passionate about creating a more just and humane world. We work together to challenge the dominant narrative around incarceration, mitigate the impacts of incarceration, support the creation of more humane and just responses to harm and violence, and allow college-in-prison programs to flourish only as long as prisons exist.
Team members contribute in various ways, depending on their interests and skills. Examples include:
  • Serving as an EJP representative to relevant coalitions and campaigns (e.g., the Illinois Coalition for Higher Education in Prison)
  • Participating in the design and implementation of tools and trainings to support EJP's policy initiatives
  • Monitoring legislation and policy developments that impact EJP's work
  • Collecting and analyzing data/research related to ongoing examination of policies and practices of campus units with which formerly incarcerated individuals to identify where supports exist and how to make campuses more inclusive and welcoming

All members participate in trainings and events, attend monthly team meetings, co-present at conferences, and shape our work moving forward.
Note: Becoming a member of EJP's Policy & Research Team is a non-compensated position, not a part-time job. Unfortunately, our platform does not allow us to change the word "job."
If you think you'd be a good fit, please complete this online application, which you can access by clicking the "Apply for this Job" button in the top right corner.
For more information, feel free to email us at policy@educationjustice.net

Apply