Senior Data Scientist

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Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The Shorenstein Center seeks a full-time Senior Data Scientist with a background in computational social science to lead the technical design and analysis for a new research project examining how individuals navigate the online environment, starting with voter registration and voting information. The project integrates large-scale behavioral web browsing data and survey data to map digital information pathways and assess their association with civic participation outcomes.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The Senior Data Scientist will play a central role in developing systems to identify voting-related search behavior, classify web domains (e.g., government, nonprofit, media, social media, political actors), and model navigation pathways across digital environments. Responsibilities include building and managing secure research datasets; designing query detection and URL classification pipelines; conducting large-scale behavioral sequence analysis; and integrating behavioral data with survey and administrative records for statistical modeling.

The position requires close collaboration with social scientists, survey researchers, engineers, and external partners. The Senior Data Scientist will contribute to research design, methodological development, statistical analysis, and co-authorship of reports and academic publications. This role is both technical and strategic, requiring independent leadership in data architecture and analytic execution.

Basic Qualifications:

At least 5 years of related experience and a doctoral degree in computer science, data science, statistics, information science, computational social science, or a related field. Demonstrated experience working with large-scale behavioral or digital trace data. Strong proficiency in Python (required) and experience with statistical modeling in R or similar environments. Experience designing data pipelines and managing complex research datasets.

Complete applications must include: Cover letter sharing why you are interested in this role, including examples/links to work or projects you feel are relevant or you are particular proud of.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Experience with large-scale datasets such as search data, web browsing data, clickstream analysis, or network traffic strongly preferred. Familiarity with domain classification, natural language processing, or query detection methods is desirable. Experience integrating behavioral data with survey or administrative datasets is a plus. Strong statistical modeling skills, including regression and causal inference methods for observational data.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary research teams. Experience contributing to academic publications or policy reports. Clear and concise written communication skills, particularly in explaining data methods and findings to non-technical audiences. Interest in civic information, election administration, or democratic participation is highly desirable.

• Appointment End Date: This is a fully benefits eligible term appointment, ending one year from date of hire, with the possibility of renewal.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 058. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.