Educational Policy Postdoctoral Research Associate in LGBTQ+ Youth Research University of Wisconsin-Madison in United States

University of Wisconsin-Madison is recruiting an Educational Policy Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with Dr. Mollie McQuillan in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (ELPA). The position focuses on policy-relevant research about the educational outcomes and systems affecting LGBTQ+ youth and the adults who support them.

The role is especially suited to applicants with strong training in education policy, statistics, sociology, psychology, public policy, or related fields. The research associate will contribute to mixed-methods projects, with a major emphasis on advanced quantitative analysis using large administrative and survey datasets, while also gaining exposure to qualitative data collection and analysis.

Key responsibilities include data cleaning, advanced statistical modeling, longitudinal and administrative data analysis, manuscript development, policy briefs, grant-supported projects, and knowledge translation for practitioners and policymakers. The role also involves collaboration with school districts, community organizations, and state agencies through research-practice partnerships.

Required qualifications: a completed PhD by the start date in Education Policy, Sociology of Education, Public Policy, Statistics, Economics, Biostatistics, Human Development, Psychology, or a closely related area; strong programming and quantitative skills (for example, R or Stata); experience with secure data environments and complex data linkage; and evidence of scholarly writing and collaborative work.

Appointment details: 12-month academic-year contract, with possible renewal depending on funding and performance. Salary is commensurate with experience, and benefits are provided according to university policy. The start date is flexible within the 2026–27 academic year.

How to apply: submit a single PDF with a cover letter, CV, 2-page research statement, writing sample, and three references. Applications should be submitted through the linked form. Review begins immediately, and priority consideration is given to applications received by May 20, 2026.

This is a strong fit for candidates interested in educational policy, LGBTQ+ youth, mixed methods, quantitative methods, school climate, disciplinary practices, and translational research with real-world policy impact.