KAP 2026-2027 - Research Associate/Assistant - Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity

About FREOPP

The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP) is a nonprofit think tank that produces policy research and practical implementation strategies designed to expand opportunity for Americans who need it most.

FREOPP advances policy ideas that:

• address the needs of individuals with wealth or income below the national median;
• have the potential to earn bipartisan support; and
• increase individual liberty.

Through rigorous analysis and practical implementation strategies, FREOPP develops durable policy solutions across healthcare, welfare reform, child welfare, housing, K–12, higher education, and more that expand opportunity and strengthen individual agency.

Position Summary:

FREOPP seeks a full-time research assistant or associate (depending on experience) to support FREOPP’s policy research, with a focus on safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, and housing, as well as other opportunity issues.

This role is ideal for an early-career professional who is eager to become an established policy professional in this space.

The Research Assistant/Associate may work virtually from anywhere in the United States, though preference will be given to candidates willing to work from the FREOPP’s Washington, DC office. This position will report directly to the Senior Vice President of Policy Research.

Qualified candidates should submit a resume with references, cover letter demonstrating their interest in and qualifications for the position and FREOPP, academic transcripts, and a writing sample.

Research and writing:

Research, edit, and assist in producing research products related to FREOPP’s policy work. Work will include, and is not limited to, primary and secondary research, analyzing public policy, producing charts and graphic displays, and preparing research memos and background information for meetings and media appearances

Contribute to the production of policy research, including providing feedback and edits on the work of our scholars.

Conduct original policy research and grow expertise on issues core to FREOPP’s mission.

Assist the Senior Vice President of Policy Research, Executive Vice President, and President with research projects as needed.

File FOIA requests with different agencies to gather information.

Coordinate small and major, long-term research projects.

Administrative Support:

Work internally on outreach for scholars’ work.

Coordinate events, gatherings, and projects as needed.

Manage additional administrative responsibilities as needed

Required

• 0–4 years of experience in public policy research, or a related field such as economics or political science.
• A strong commitment to FREOPP’s mission
• Strong data skills, with an ability to work in Excel as well as at least one other platform (R, Python, or Stata).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfort receiving direct feedback and incorporating that feedback quickly.
• An ability to identify and complete important work in a timely manner.
• Positive, collaborative attitude and willingness to contribute where needed.
• Creative, hardworking, and mission-aligned approach.

Preferred

• Previous relevant experience as a research assistant supporting scholars.