Senior Research Scientist

If youre passionate about building a better future for individuals communities and our countryand youre committed to working hard to play your part in building that futureconsider WGU as the next step in your career.

Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online competency-based degree programs WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals. The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century one that has received praise from academic industry government and media leaders. Whatever your role working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.

The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

At WGU it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:

Job Description

What Youll Do

• Independently plan and execute research projects from conceptualization through data collection analysis and dissemination

• Determine and apply appropriate research methods including qualitative studies secondary data analysis quasi-experimental designs and randomized controlled trials

• Collect combine clean and manage data from multiple sources

• Access and analyze large datasets using statistical software such as R SPSS or SAS

• Design and deploy surveys using tools such as Qualtrics

• Perform advanced quantitative and qualitative analyses and create compelling data visualizations

• Produce high-quality client facing reports and presentations and represent WGU Academy at conferences and internal events

What Youll Bring

• Expert ability to independently define design and conduct original scientific research

• Strong data manipulation skills using SQL and Python

• Data visualization experience using tools such as Python and Tableau

• Deep expertise in qualitative and quantitative primary research methods

• Proven ability to lead research projects including scope cost resources timelines compliance and reporting

• Excellent written verbal presentation and interpersonal communication skills

• Ability to translate complex research findings for both technical and non-technical audiences

• Demonstrated thought leadership and subject matter expertise

• A collaborative mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced creative environment

• Strong attention to detail and ownership over the quality of work and outcomes

Bonus Points

• Experience in education technology or a related field

• Experience presenting research to clients top leaders or industry conferences

• Experience partnering closely with cross-functional stakeholders

Experience in Lieu of Education

Education may substitute for a portion of the required professional experience.

What to Expect

At WGU our mission drives everything we do including how we hire. Our interview experience is designed to give qualified candidates the opportunity to show their best work through meaningful conversations and collaboration.
We thoughtfully review every application and invite forward the candidates whose experience and potential best align with the role and our mission.

Interview Steps

• Introductory call

• Hiring manager interview

• Short project/Team interview

Work Location

This is a full-time in-office position at WGUs office in Salt Lake City Utah. Travel up to 5% may be required.

Visa Sponsorship

While we welcome applicants from all backgrounds WGU is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this role.

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Position & Application Details

How to Apply: If interested an application will need to be submitted online. Internal WGU employees will need to apply through the internal job board in Workday.

Additional Information

Disclaimer: The job posting highlights the most critical responsibilities and requirements of the job. Its not all-inclusive.

Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities who require assistance or accommodation during the application or interview process should contact our Talent Acquisition team at

Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic as required by law.