Fast Facts

Join NewSchools as a temporary, part-time Research Assistant supporting innovative K-12 school development, conducting research and analysis to inform grant-making decisions.

Responsibilities: Key tasks include conducting due diligence of prospective investments, performing policy research, analyzing data, managing files, and assisting in grant-making operations.

Skills: Strong analytical, communication, project management, and technical skills, including proficiency in Google Suite and MS Office; ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required; experience in research and K-12 education is preferred; current graduate students are encouraged to apply.

Location: This is a remote position available to candidates residing anywhere in the U.S.

Compensation: $25 - $25 / Hourly

OPPORTUNITY

Nationally recognized nonprofit venture philanthropy seeks a temporary, part-time Research Associate to support the Schools investment area. 

ORGANIZATION

NewSchools is a venture philanthropy that builds a better K-12 education system by connecting people, resources, and ideas. We bridge the gap between those with capital and those with the courage to put that capital to work on the frontlines of education. We envision an education system that keeps its promise to all students. That’s why we invest in the ideas and energy of education leaders and entrepreneurs who are advancing innovative solutions that expand the definition of what works. There’s a better way to advance education through philanthropy—one that is more collaborative and more courageous–and we’re proving it every day.

SCHOOLS INVESTMENT AREA

We support teams of educators with bold visions for new schools that will change the odds for students in communities across America. Our definition of an innovative school is broad, and we know the schools each community needs will not look the same. We fund the design of new public schools - both district and charter. These schools help students develop a strong academic foundation along with the other mindsets, habits and skills they will need for success in life. 

To learn more about our work, please visit:https://www.newschools.org/investment-areas/innovative-public-schools/

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Schools team seeks a temporary, part-time Research Associate to join a fun, passionate and dedicated group of people focused on new school development. As support to the largest investment team at NewSchools, you will directly assist in the operations of our grant-making selection and diligence process. You will work remotely from anywhere in the U.S.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following activities: 

• Support due diligence and selection activities by conducting background research related to prospective investments, supporting in file management and grantee follow up communications, and providing ad hoc support in investment meetings 
• Conduct a national and state-level policy research that helps the team stay apprised of the fluctuating K-12 conditions and create a system for our team to access this information readily
• Support in quantitative and qualitative data analysis, including analysis of applicant performance and synthesis of applicant data to inform our selection process 
• Support the Schools team in synthesizing investment decisions and updating internal systems (such as AirTable, Sharepoint and Salesforce) with relevant data 
• Work collaboratively with our operations and finance teams to ensure all grant making operations is conducted smoothly and efficiently
• Support with key recruitment activities including conducting pipeline building research and other related projects as needed 

SKILLS and QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated commitment to the improvement of public education 
• Strong quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, with proven ability to develop presentations and present analyses 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; able to communicate effectively with a wide variety of people at all levels 
• Ability to appropriately prioritize work, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, manage time effectively, and deliver high-quality work on time 
• Effective project management with attention to detail to verify sources for accuracy and credibility, and ability to drive to completion
• Strong strategic thinking and analysis skills
• Proficiency with Google Suite and MS Office products (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Excel), and experience with data science tools (e.g. Airtable, Excel) 
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously, taking initiative in research tasks and problem-solving with minimal supervision.
• Ability to proactively initiate, develop, and maintain effective working relationships with team members 
• Proven ability to learn quickly and continuously 

EXPERIENCE

• Experience conducting research in an academic, professional, or independent setting (e.g., coursework, internships, nonprofit work, or self-directed projects).
• Some professional experience in the field of education preferred (especially in K-12 schools) 
• Consulting, finance, development, or entrepreneurial experience valued 
• Bachelor’s degree required, current graduate students encouraged to apply

COMPENSATION and CONTRACT TERM

The hourly rate of pay of this temporary, part time position is $25. The position will be 10-20 hours per week with flexible hours. This is a time bound position, and will end by August 31, 2025. 

NewSchools Venture Fund has a strong commitment to diversity. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Please note, applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

Priority will be given to those who apply by February 21, 2025.