Associate Research Scientist

at  Wellesley College

At Wellesley, our mission is to deliver an outstanding liberal arts education
to women who will make a difference in the world. Our collaborative
community, comprising faculty, students, staff, and alumnae, is guided by
our shared values. We champion intellectual discovery and excellence,
uphold gender equality as foundational to progress, affirm diversity as
crucial to educational excellence, value connection and community, empower
individuals for social change, and commit to integrity and academic freedom
in our pursuit of knowledge. Join us in this transformative journey!
When applying for the position, please ensure a thorough review of the job
details. If you are an internal employee, kindly utilize the internal portal on
Workday for your application. Prepare a comprehensive resume/cv and cover
letter for upload. Acceptable formats for these documents are either PDF
(.pdf) or Word (.doc).
Job Posting Title
Associate Research Scientist
Job Description Summary
Admin Exempt
Job Description
The Associate Research Scientist (ARS) engages in research under continuing mentorship, generally as a member of a research team led by a Senior Research Scientist or Project Director. There is an expectation that the ARS will engage in independent proposal writing as well as submissions done in partnership with others, will be co-author or lead author on publications, and will participate in the WCW Writing Group. Associate Research Scientists should share their work in a WCW-sponsored lecture, blog, brief, or commentary (as lead or co-author) at least once annually. Most Associate Research Scientists will typically be within 5 years of receiving a doctorate or equivalent. Some will have been promoted from the position of Postdoctoral Research Scientist, while others will have been hired as entry level-RSPDs into the Associate Research Scientist role because of their connection to a more senior RSPD with whom they are collaborating. When the ARS has demonstrated measurable success in generating funds for their own work or as an equal partner, key personnel, or Co-PI, in partnership with others at WCW or external to WCW, they may be promoted to Research Scientist. Normally, this occurs after the first three-year review, although, in exceptional circumstances (such as securing a PI or Co-PI role on a large multi-year extramural grant), it may occur sooner.

Position Responsibility:

• Support the research and action portfolio of an established RSPD (who serves as the PRS’s mentor/collaborator) on grant-funded research or action projects by engaging in primary investigator-level activities as an emerging peer.
• Develop own research and action trajectory through independent work or collaboration with other researchers, whether the mentor or others (inside or outside WCW), with a focus on demonstrating capacity for extramurally sponsored research. Should include academic publishing, the preparation and submission of grant proposals, participation in academic conferences, or other typical research-related activities. Participation in WCW’s Writing Group is expected.
• Engage in WCW community or service activities, including biannual retreats, seasonal community events, monthly all-staff meetings, and occasional committee service or outreach. My also occasionally involve activity related to WCW’s participation in the Wagner Centers for Wellesley in the World or other on-campus entities, such as academic departments.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• The Associate Research Scientist is not required to supervise anyone; however, from time-to-time, the ARS may supervise a research or project associate (staff employee) or student (student intern, student project associate, or student research associate), whether independently or in collaboration with the RSPD mentor.

Basic Qualifications:

• A terminal degree (PhD, EdD, etc.) in an academic discipline related to WCW’s key areas of work is required.
• Prior academic publications, particularly peer-reviewed journal articles, and experience working on sponsored research, are also required.

Skills and Abilities:

• Good written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated quantitative and/or qualitative data analytic skill
• Experience with data collection
• Experience with grant writing
• Experience with academic publication
• Team player who can toggle between independent work and supervised work (mentorship)
• Proactive and creative problem solver
• Sufficient computer literacy and technology skills to work in an academic setting
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to balance multiple projects and meet multiple deadlines within a finite period of time
• Ability to be flexible with schedule and activities
• Willingness to work with students and other junior supervisees

This position would initially be on a three-year term, renewable indefinitely as long as good progress is being made and the funding is available.
Company Description
Wellesley’s mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a community—faculty, students, staff, and alumnae.

Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being and professional growth. As a valued member of our team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success.

• Competitive Compensation: Experience competitive wages ensuring your dedication is recognized and rewarded.
• Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving benefits, life insurance, disability coverage, and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.
• Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail.
• Paid Time Off: Take advantage of paid vacations, personal days, sick time, and holidays to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life harmony.
• Retirement Savings: Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees
• Work/Life and Wellness: A hybrid work environment for select positions (additional details will be provided during the interview process), caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, free onsite and virtual fitness classes and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
• Professional Development: Enhance your skills and explore growth opportunities through continuing training and pathways for growth within our supportive environment.
• Tuition and Education Benefits: Invest in your education with tuition benefits, and access resources to navigate student loan forgiveness, reinforcing our commitment to your ongoing learning.
• Campus Privileges: Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community.

Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College – where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity!
Worker Sub-Type
Administrative
Time Type
Full time
EEO Statement
At Wellesley, we embrace and honor difference and diversity. We believe the best ideas—the best solutions—draw on a range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. As a college, and as a community, we are dedicated to assuring that all members for the Wellesley community have an equal opportunity to flourish.
Wellesley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to the diversity of the college community and the curriculum. Wellesley College and all its subcontractors shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60–1.4(a), 60–300.5(a) and 60–741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that Wellesley College and all of its subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status. Candidates who believe they can contribute to that goal are encouraged to apply

• The Associate Research Scientist is not required to supervise anyone; however, from time-to-time, the ARS may supervise a research or project associate (staff employee) or student (student intern, student project associate, or student research associate), whether independently or in collaboration with the RSPD mentor