Education Policy Research Fellow

About the Show-Me Institute

The Show-Me Institute (SMI) is a nonpartisan think tank in Missouri dedicated to advancing free markets and individual liberty. SMI seeks an Education Policy Research Fellow to design and execute rigorous research projects that further the Institute’s mission and policy objectives.

The Fellow’s research will focus on education policy, including:

• Charter schools and school choice
• Teacher labor markets
• School accountability
• School finance
• School effectiveness, particularly in early literacy and numeracy
• Other education policy issues relevant to SMI’s mission

Position Responsibilities

The Education Policy Research Fellow’s primary responsibility is to conduct high-quality, policy-relevant research for publication and dissemination by SMI. The Fellow will work under the direction of the Director of Education Policy to conduct research and communicate findings to policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.

In addition to producing original research, the Fellow may:

• Write commentaries, op-eds, news releases, and other publications that extend the reach and impact of SMI’s education research
• Present research findings to public and professional audiences
• Provide legislative testimony and objective research to legislators and other public officials in Missouri to inform policy discussions and decision-making
• Work with SMI’s development team to identify and secure financial support for the Fellow’s research projects

Qualifications

Candidates must have a master’s degree or PhD in economics, education, political science, public policy, or a related field.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Proficiency with Stata, R, Python, or a comparable statistical software package
• Training in statistics, econometrics, or quantitative research methods
• Strong research, analytical, and written communication skills

Applicants must submit a writing sample that was not generated by artificial intelligence as part of the application package. The format and style of the writing sample is at the discretion of the candidate.

Compensation, Start Date, and Position Details

The Show-Me Institute will begin reviewing applications immediately. The start date is flexible contingent upon the successful candidate’s availability.

The expected salary range is $80,000–$105,000 annually, with compensation and benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Location and Work Arrangement

This is primarily an in-person position based in St. Louis, Missouri. A hybrid work arrangement may be available, allowing the Education Policy Research Fellow to divide time between the SMI office and working remotely. However, regular in-person attendance at the SMI office will be required.