What is a Research Analyst at American Institutes for Research?
At the American Institutes for Research (also widely known as AIR), a Research Analyst—often designated internally as a Research Associate—plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between social science research and real-world impact. As a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization founded in 1946, AIR conducts highly rigorous behavioral and social science research to address some of the most pressing challenges in education, health, and workforce development globally. In this role, you are not simply processing data; you are generating the evidence base that policymakers and practitioners rely on to improve lives.
Working within specialized teams such as Health Innovations or Education Systems, a Research Analyst contributes to the full lifecycle of a research project. This includes everything from initial literature reviews and policy scans to primary data collection, statistical analysis, and the final synthesis of findings into accessible briefs and reports. Your work directly supports large-scale evaluations of public health initiatives, educational interventions, and social programs, making accuracy and methodological integrity paramount.
What makes this position distinct is the collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. You will work alongside a diverse group of experts—including sociologists, economists, psychometricians, and public health specialists. Success in this role requires a balance of strong quantitative or qualitative research skills, exceptional writing ability, and a genuine commitment to social improvement.
