The School of Humanities and Sciences (H&S) is the center of a world-class liberal arts education at Stanford University. H&S encompasses 23 departments—from Art and Art History, English, and History to Economics, Mathematics, and Biology—as well as 23 interdisciplinary programs. As the university’s largest school, H&S serves as the foundation of a Stanford undergraduate education no matter which discipline students pursue as a major. Graduate students work alongside world-renowned faculty to pursue and shape foundational research that leads to breakthroughs and discoveries that shed new light on the past, influence the present, and shape the future. Together, faculty and students in H&S engage in inspirational teaching, learning, and research every day.

The Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society (PACS) is a global interdisciplinary research center and publisher of the Stanford Social Innovation Review (SSIR ). Stanford PACS develops and shares knowledge to improve philanthropy, strengthen civil society, and address societal challenges. By creating a shared space for scholars, students, and practitioners, Stanford PACS informs policy and social innovation, philanthropic investment, and nonprofit practice. 

The Polarization and Social Change Laboratory (PaSCL) at Stanford University brings researchers from social psychology, sociology, political science, and organizational behavior together in a fast-paced, highly collaborative work environment to study the leading social problems of our time and to develop and test strategic approaches for affecting social change.

PaSCL is seeking an experienced, highly motivated, Research Scholar who will work with the lab’s Faculty Director, Robb Willer ,  and PaSCL’s research teams to help advance the lab’s array of research interests and publication initiatives. Reporting to PaSCL’s Faculty Director, the Research Scholar’s core responsibilities will  include co-authoring papers, grant proposal writing, editing the writing of postdoctoral fellows and graduate students, and outreach to external organizations to drive application of findings. Additional responsibilities may include, but are not limited to: developing field experiments with partner organizations, helping with organizing convenings, managing research projects, and designing/editing stimuli for studies.

The ideal candidate will be a creative, motivated individual with experience in social science and policy research, capable of writing and editing content for journal publications and of managing a wide array of research projects and programs. Strong planning and execution skills are critical for this position, coupled with excellent communications skills, the ability to work independently to advance PaSCL's goals as well as to collaborate with staff and researchers (ranging from senior faculty to postdocs, graduate and undergraduate students), and a commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the Stanford community.

The ideal candidate will have strong writing, communication, and organizational skills along with familiarity with research design and methodology. Some of the central functions of the role will include:

• Write and/or edit complex content for research proposals, research grants, peer-reviewed publications, event programming, program outreach, and other activities.
• Support the Faculty Director in managing PaSCL’s research agenda across all projects.
• Collaborate with and support internal and external stakeholders, including staff, scholars, students, and other university and community-based networks.
• Lead efforts to expand the reach of the lab, both on campus and within the broader research community. 
• Work with media and marketing teams at PACS, Stanford, and outside of the Academy to further the impact of PaSCL’s research.
• Identify intersections among different projects and foster collaborations.
• Contribute to long-range planning processes and program development.
• Identify, recommend and implement opportunities for new research.
• Organize seminar series, conferences, and meetings.
• Teach and/or assist in the teaching and administration of courses.
• May oversee lab research coordinators and undergraduate research assistants.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills, exhibiting fluency in area of specialization.
• Strong project management skills.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, critical analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated planning and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, as a self-starter, and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to develop program partnerships and funding sources.
• Ability to oversee, mentor, and direct staff and students.
• Basic knowledge of managing budgets and developing project plans.
• Demonstrated ability to operate in a service-oriented way, with dedication, follow-through, and team spirit.
• Ability to use discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of persons.

The position requires a PhD in a social science discipline; a record of early-career scholarly or related writing and a demonstrated interest in topics related to the polarization and social change lab’s work. We seek applicants who wish to join an academic community that values rigorous inquiry and encourages diverse perspectives and experiences. Applicants must submit a CV and cover letter.

This is a two-year, fixed term position.This position will be based on the Stanford campus and will be considered for an option of telecommuting (hybrid of working on-site and off-site), subject to operational need. 

Why Stanford is for You

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks  empower you with:

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classifications and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.