Enrollment research scientist

Ready to turn data into decisions that shape students' futures? The University of Iowa is hiring a dedicated Enrollment Management Scientist (100% appointment).

The Enrollment Research Scientist works as a part of the Enrollment Management Data Team and serves as a strategic research and analytical partner supporting data-informed decision making across Enrollment Management, with a primary focus on financial aid strategy and enrollment planning. This position designs and conducts applied research, develops predictive and econometric models, synthesizes emerging research and demographic trends, and translates complex analyses into actionable recommendations for university leadership. They will also have the opportunity to:

• Seek efficiency measures that will result in cost savings or investment in new strategies or programming.
• Review and synthesize relevant higher education literature and emerging research to identify promising practices and inform institutional decision-making.
• Prepare written reports, presentations, and visualizations that communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

And more!

For a full job description, including all duties and competencies assigned, please e-mail the contact listed below. Visit: Job Opportunities (Org 02 & 35) to see all job opening with the Office of the Provost at the University of Iowa.

About the Department: The Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost provides academic leadership to the University of Iowa. Its fundamental mission is to champion innovation and excellence in teaching, research, creative production, and service. Together, our faculty, staff, and students are helping to create a better future for the people of Iowa, our nation, and the world, not only through their cutting-edge research but also through world class health care, art and cultural opportunities, and continuing and distance education. Most important, we are preparing the next generation of scientists, scholars, artists, skilled professionals, leaders, and responsible global citizens who will carry on a proud legacy of engagement and excellence.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with a combination of a behavioral science (e.g., Sociology, Economics, Psychology, Consumer Behavior) and a quantitative component (e.g., Statistics, Data Science), or an equivalent combination of training and experience providing a comparable level of expertise.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in research and data analysis.

Competencies Required:

• Demonstrates an extensive proficiency level in the following competencies:
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of applied statistical methods, predictive modeling, and introductory econometric techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of enrollment management principles, admissions operations, and institutional financial aid.
• Experience conducting research using large datasets.
• Ability to synthesize quantitative evidence, published research, and institutional context into practical recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and ability to independently identify research opportunities.
• Experience with statistical software such as R, Stata, SAS, Python, or similar analytical tools.
• Experience with SQL and business intelligence tools sufficient to retrieve, analyze, visualize and communicate data (not as a database developer).
• Willingness and ability to learn new methodologies and tools as needed.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in behavioral science with a strong quantitative component.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in research and data analysis.
• Experience working in a higher education setting.
• Related experience working with enrollment management data.

To Apply:

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must upload BOTH of the following and mark them each as a “Relevant File” to the job submission:

• a current resume
• a cover letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the process.

Work Modality:

This position performed fully on-campus and will not be eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements. The University will not sponsor any work authorization for this role.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$63,000 - $70,000, with the top of the range reserved for exceptionally qualified applicants. This position includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package.

Reach out to Monica Frank at monica-frank@uiowa.edu to learn more about benefits, compensation practices, and career development opportunities.

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution. Click here to learn more about why you should join UI!