All Things Urban

The Harvard Graduate School of Design is dedicated to the education and development of professionals in architecture, landscape, urban planning, urban design, and other design-related disciplines. GSD is uniquely positioned to provide leadership for shaping the built environment of the 21st century.

Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) seeks applications for a research assistant to conduct quantitative research on issues related to housing and home improvement markets and policy. Since its founding in 1959, JCHS has been a leader in advancing public understanding of housing issues and policy. Through its research, education, and public outreach programs, JCHS helps leaders in government, business, and the civic sectors make decisions that effectively address the needs of cities and communities. As a member of the JCHS research team, the research assistant will contribute to the Joint Center’s research products, communications, events, and other activities.

- Carries out quantitative research on topics related to housing markets, household demographics and finances, housing affordability, housing policy, homeownership and rental housing, home improvement and repair markets, and other research areas as needed. - Summarizes and compiles data through the statistical analysis of large-scale databases including the American Housing Survey, Decennial Census, Current Population Survey, Survey of Consumer Finance, Rental Housing Finance Survey, and American Community Survey. - Conducts statistical analysis, database management, and policy analysis; participates in design of research methods and approaches; serves as source of information or reference on specific research methods and may train others in econometric analysis procedures. - Organizes material for reports, research briefs, and working papers. Drafts publications both independently and in collaboration with senior staff. Designs and delivers research presentations as required. - Works as a member of a team, contributing to all aspects of project development and execution. Submits periodic reports of project status to supervisor. Performs other project duties as required.

Basic Qualifications: Candidates must have an interest in topics related to housing, as well as experience using statistical software packages such as SAS or Stata. Experience working with Census PUMS data is a plus. Experience with GIS mapping tools is also a plus. Additional Qualifications: Preference will be given to those with a Master’s Degree in economics, public policy, urban planning, or a related field (1 - 2 years research experience is a plus). Strong analytical, oral and written communication skills.

Unfortunately, it seems like this job is not available for international candidates. Unless you’re eligible for a work visa otherwise, please double-check with the company.