We’re looking for a Social Scientist to join our team!
Join a group of Data Scientists, Social Scientists, and Civic Design Researchers working to address DC's most critical problems. The Lab @ DC designs and tests innovative programs and policies designed to improve the lives of District residents. We help policymakers use evidence to make informed decisions that strengthen our community. Check out some examples of our current work on transit subsidies, road safety, career and technical education, food security, and rental assistance.
PhD-Level Social Scientist:
Who we’re looking for:
Team players who want to use scientific tools to make a positive difference in DC residents’ lives, particularly for historically disadvantaged populations.
Strong R or Python skills (be ready to share organized, annotated code).
Strong quantitative skills, including research design, statistics or econometrics, program evaluation, and/or experimental methods.
Effectively communicate about projects to a diverse audience, including scientific experts, government practitioners, residents, and policymakers.
Bonus: a passion for making a difference in at least one of the following areas: transportation, public safety, housing stability, food access, education, government efficiency, or workforce development.
Someone who can start in DC no later than April 14, 2025.
What you’ll gain:
Skills to influence policy decisions and program design that impact your neighbors.
Experience designing and implementing evidence building alongside government leaders.
The opportunity to use your skills to contribute to key policy and budgetary decisions.
Real world experience conducting rigorous science within local government.
Experience using granular administrative data (and all its fun quirks!) across education, housing, public benefits, transportation, public safety, and more to measure the outcomes that matter.
Publications (from tweet storms and blog posts to peer reviewed journals).
What you should know:.
If you’re currently a University faculty or a pre or post-doc, there is an opportunity to join the team through a Personnel Exchange Agreement, which would allow you to retain your university affiliation while working for the District.
Our team is currently working a hybrid model of 4 days in the office and 1 day of telework.
Interested? Read full position description and apply through careers.dc.gov (search for Job ID 29056 ). Applications require only a CV or resume—you don't need a cover letter. Questions? Connect with us at the.lab@dc.gov. Applications are due by Tuesday, February 18 at 11:59 pm.