UMass Boston
Overview
The Latino Policy Analyst (LPA) will work with the Gastón Institute’s Director, Associate Director and/or Principal Investigators to conduct statewide research and policy analysis focusing on the status of Latino communities. The LPA will collect and analyze primary data across the state, analyze secondary data from federal and state agencies, community-based organizations, human services providers, academic and professional journals, and foundations. The LPA will write and prepare policy/issue briefs, research summaries and literature reviews and serve as the lead facilitator for the “Latino Public Policy Advisory Group” at the Gastón Institute. The LPA will also support the development of grant proposals for the group’s research agenda and work closely with community-based organizations to identify Latino needs and emerging trends, and areas for coordination and collaboration that support policy-based initiatives for the Latino community in Massachusetts.
Responsibilities
Conduct and analyze primary qualitative and quantitative data for Latinos across Massachusetts and analyze secondary data to provide a comprehensive picture of Latino experiences.
Write, prepare, and release policy/issue briefs, research summaries, reports, and literature reviews on issues affecting Latino communities.
Serve as the lead facilitator for the development of the Latino Public Policy Advisory Group, collaborating with local partner organizations and policymakers.
Facilitate regular meetings with the advisory group and educate members on emerging Latino issues and coordination opportunities.
Analyze and synthesize data, emerging trends, and existing literature to inform project design and inclusion in policy briefs, reports, scholarly articles, and grant proposals.
Provide direction and supervision of work‑study and graduate students, offering research training and skill development opportunities.
Develop and implement an applied research and policy analysis program focused on community development, health, education, criminal justice reform, and other areas of interest.
Collaborate with advisory group partners to establish research and advocacy priorities, develop strategic plans, and prepare white papers, legislative testimonies, policy memos, and editorials.
Communicate with media and stakeholders about the Latino Public Policy agenda on behalf of the Gastón Institute and advisory group partners.
Support the development of grant proposals for the Institute and the advisory group’s research agenda.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, or Sociology and five years of professional-level, research-based work experience; PhD preferred with similar experience in the Social Sciences.
Experience conducting interdisciplinary research and working effectively in multi-disciplinary teams including academics, legislators, and community stakeholders.
Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
Familiarity with textual data management software such as NVIVO.
Strong data management and processing skills, e.g., Excel.
Experience with grant writing and strategic planning.
Knowledge of public policy, community organizing, and community development principles.
Experience with GIS mapping or willingness to learn social network analysis.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects and priorities.
Experience with program development and collaborative implementation across government agencies, national organizations, business communities, and the philanthropic/nonprofit sector.
Experience leading teams and working independently.
Strong oral and written communication skills with empathy in interpersonal situations.
Ability to present research findings accessibly to a wide variety of audiences, including through publishing and public speaking.
Application Instructions Please apply online with your resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references. Review of candidates will begin following the application closing date. Only internal candidates in the Professional Staff Bargaining Unit will be considered during the first 10 business days of the posting; all other candidates will be considered thereafter.
Salary Grade: 32. Salary ranges are available through the university’s systems. All official salary offers must be approved by Human Resources. This is a grant‑funded position with a current end date of August 31 2026, subject to renewal contingent on funding and university needs.
Equity & Inclusion UMass Boston is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. Persons with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact HR@umb.edu or 617‑287‑5150.
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Responsibilities
Conduct and analyze primary qualitative and quantitative data for Latinos across Massachusetts and analyze secondary data to provide a comprehensive picture of Latino experiences.
Write, prepare, and release policy/issue briefs, research summaries, reports, and literature reviews on issues affecting Latino communities.
Serve as the lead facilitator for the development of the Latino Public Policy Advisory Group, collaborating with local partner organizations and policymakers.
Facilitate regular meetings with the advisory group and educate members on emerging Latino issues and coordination opportunities.
Analyze and synthesize data, emerging trends, and existing literature to inform project design and inclusion in policy briefs, reports, scholarly articles, and grant proposals.
Provide direction and supervision of work‑study and graduate students, offering research training and skill development opportunities.
Develop and implement an applied research and policy analysis program focused on community development, health, education, criminal justice reform, and other areas of interest.
Collaborate with advisory group partners to establish research and advocacy priorities, develop strategic plans, and prepare white papers, legislative testimonies, policy memos, and editorials.
Communicate with media and stakeholders about the Latino Public Policy agenda on behalf of the Gastón Institute and advisory group partners.
Support the development of grant proposals for the Institute and the advisory group’s research agenda.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, or Sociology and five years of professional-level, research-based work experience; PhD preferred with similar experience in the Social Sciences.
Experience conducting interdisciplinary research and working effectively in multi-disciplinary teams including academics, legislators, and community stakeholders.
Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
Familiarity with textual data management software such as NVIVO.
Strong data management and processing skills, e.g., Excel.
Experience with grant writing and strategic planning.
Knowledge of public policy, community organizing, and community development principles.
Experience with GIS mapping or willingness to learn social network analysis.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects and priorities.
Experience with program development and collaborative implementation across government agencies, national organizations, business communities, and the philanthropic/nonprofit sector.
Experience leading teams and working independently.
Strong oral and written communication skills with empathy in interpersonal situations.
Ability to present research findings accessibly to a wide variety of audiences, including through publishing and public speaking.
Application Instructions Please apply online with your resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references. Review of candidates will begin following the application closing date. Only internal candidates in the Professional Staff Bargaining Unit will be considered during the first 10 business days of the posting; all other candidates will be considered thereafter.
Salary Grade: 32. Salary ranges are available through the university’s systems. All official salary offers must be approved by Human Resources. This is a grant‑funded position with a current end date of August 31 2026, subject to renewal contingent on funding and university needs.
Equity & Inclusion UMass Boston is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. Persons with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact HR@umb.edu or 617‑287‑5150.
#J-18808-Ljbffr