Job Description
The Purpose Science and Innovation Exchange (PSIX) at Cornell University is seeking a full-time Senior Research Associate to play a key leadership role in advancing the Institute’s research agenda. This position offers the opportunity to shape and implement research initiatives that explore and expand our understanding of purpose, identity, and well-being across diverse populations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in social science research, experience in research operations, and an ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
About PSIX
PSIX is an emerging forward-thinking research institute dedicated to studying and advancing the science of purpose. By connecting cutting-edge research with practical applications, PSIX seeks to create meaningful change in individual and societal outcomes. Our team collaborates with researchers, policy leaders, and practitioners to push the boundaries of knowledge and drive innovation in the field.
Position Summary:
This role is ideal for a highly motivated individual who thrives in dynamic environments and excels at translating vision into action. Working closely with the PSIX Director, the Senior Research Associate will oversee core research operations, drive the Institute’s research strategy, manage research staff, and represent PSIX in collaborations and conferences.
Key Responsibilities:
- Partner with the PSIX Director to design and execute the Institute’s research vision and strategy.
- Manage core research operations, including study design, implementation, IRB processes, data management, and storage.
- Lead grant writing initiatives on behalf of the PSIX Director.
- Serve as the primary research contact for the Institute’s sister organization, the Purpose Commons.
- Represent the PSIX Director in internal and external meetings, addressing inquiries from collaborators and stakeholders.
- Organize, lead, and set agendas for research meetings, including weekly team discussions, monthly brainstorming sessions, and quarterly leadership meetings.
- Oversee grant budget management and liaise with key institutional stakeholders, including Cornell University offices, external vendors, and research collaborators.
- Represent PSIX at conferences and external research meetings.
- Collaborate on research publications and communications as needed.
- Supervise and mentor research staff, including Data Analysts and Postdoctoral Researchers.
Qualifications:
- A Ph.D. (preferred) or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as psychology, sociology, public policy, or related social sciences.
- Experience designing and implementing research studies, managing data, and navigating IRB protocols.
- Strong grant writing skills with a track record of securing funding.
- Excellent organizational, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and manage diverse stakeholders.
- Familiarity with budget management and institutional research processes is a plus.
Position Details:
This is a one-year, full-time appointment, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding. The position will be based in Ithaca, NY, with hybrid work arrangements.  No visa sponsorship or relocation assistance are provided for this position.
For full consideration for this position, you must provide all of the materials required with your application.
- Cover letter
- CV
- (2) Writing samples (e.g., research articles, grant proposals, reports),
- Names and contact information for three references
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
The University also seeks to meet the needs of dual career couples, has a Dual Career program, and is a member of the Upstate New York Higher Education Recruitment Consortium to assist with dual career searches.
Pay Range:
Refer to Posting Language
Pay Ranges:
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
- Prior relevant work or industry experience.
- Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
- Academic Discipline
- Unique applicable skills.
