About this role.
This Research Analyst II position at Temple University supports institutional strategic planning by conducting advanced quantitative and qualitative research on student and institutional data. The role involves statistical modeling, data visualization, and building dashboards in Tableau or Power BI, as well as collaborating with campus stakeholders to define analytical needs. The successful candidate will transform complex datasets into actionable insights, ensure data integrity, and support institutional reporting for internal and external audiences. Required qualifications include a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, two years of experience in institutional or educational research, and proficiency in statistical software like R, Python, or SAS. The position offers a hybrid work schedule, comprehensive benefits, and tuition remission.
Role DNA
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4/5Autonomy Level
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Core skills
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Cover letter sample
Dear Hiring Team,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Research Analyst II position at Temple University's Institutional Research & Assessment Department. With a solid background in educational research and advanced data analysis, I am excited about the opportunity to support strategic planning through actionable insights. My experience with statistical tools like R and Python, along with dashboard development in Tableau and Power BI, aligns well with your requirements.
I have successfully managed complex datasets in higher education settings, ensuring data integrity and producing clear visualizations for diverse audiences. I thrive in collaborative environments and am adept at translating business needs into analytical solutions.
I am particularly drawn to Temple's mission and the chance to contribute to data-informed decision-making. Thank you for considering my application; I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills can benefit your team.
Sample interview questions
In my previous role, I analyzed student retention trends using logistic regression in R. I cleaned and merged data from multiple sources, including Banner and survey responses. I used Tableau to create an interactive dashboard showing key predictors of retention, which was presented to academic advisors. The insights led to targeted interventions that improved retention by 3%.
I follow a rigorous validation process: first, I define data quality checks, such as range and consistency checks, before analysis. I also cross-reference aggregate numbers with official reports. During data cleaning, I document every transformation step. Finally, I perform random spot-checks and use version control to maintain an audit trail.
I created a quarterly report for deans and faculty, simplifying statistical concepts into visual charts and plain language. I focused on key takeaways and actionable recommendations rather than methodology details. I also used storytelling techniques, such as comparing trends over time, to make the data more relatable. This led to clearer decision-making and increased trust in the data.
I regularly use SQL to extract and manipulate data from institutional databases. For example, I wrote a query to pull enrollment and GPA data across multiple terms, using joins and subqueries to calculate term-over-term changes. I also used window functions to rank courses by failure rates, which helped identify at-risk courses for the academic support team.
I use a prioritization matrix to assess urgency and impact, and I communicate timeline expectations with stakeholders early. I break projects into smaller tasks and track them using project management tools like Trello or Asana. I also build in buffer time for unexpected requests and ensure regular check-ins with my supervisor to adjust priorities as needed.
Description
Temple University’s Institutional Research & Assessment Department is searching for a Research Analyst II!
Become a part of the Temple family and you will have access to the following:
A hybrid work schedule
Full medical, dental, vision coverage
Paid time off
12 Paid Holidays
Tuition remission – eligible employees and their dependents can obtain a degree TUITION FREE
A generous retirement plan and so much more!
Salary Range: $49,250 – $56,000
A variety of important factors are reviewed by HR when considering salary, including job duties, the applicant’s education and experience, all relevant internal equity considerations, department budget, and funding source.
Position Summary
The Research Analyst II supports the university’s strategic planning and decision-making by conducting independent research and advanced data analysis. Reporting to the Assistant Vice Provost and Director of Data Analysis and Reporting, this role develops and executes quantitative and qualitative research projects, including forecasting and trend analyses related to student and institutional data.
The position transforms complex data into actionable insights through statistical modeling, data visualization, and effective communication. The Research Analyst II partners with campus stakeholders to define analytical needs, ensures data integrity through validation and governance practices, and supports institutional reporting for internal and external audiences. This role also monitors trends in higher education to inform planning, policy, and data-informed decision-making. Performs other duties as assigned.
Job Details
* This position requires the following background checks: Cash Handling and Personally Identifiable Information background check.
* This position is listed as Hybrid work: Workweek divided between being onsite and working remotely.
Required Education and Experience
* Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, statistics, educational research or related field.
* At least two (2) years of directly related experience in Institutional Research or in educational research.
* Experience designing user-centered dashboards and reports for diverse audiences.
* Experience using reporting and data visualization tools such as Tableau and Power BI.
* Demonstrated experience with statistical software packages such as R, Python, SPSS, JMP, or SAS.
* An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Preferred Education and Experience
* Master’s degree in social sciences, statistics, educational research, or related field.
* Experience working with Banner or other student information/ERP systems.
* Experience using SQL and/or statistical programming languages (R or Python).
* Experience working in an Institutional Research office.
* Experience developing dashboards using Tableau or Power BI.
* Knowledge of higher education data structures, metrics, and reporting requirements (e.g., enrollment, retention, graduation, IPEDS).
Required Skills and Abilities
* Demonstrated ability to manage, manipulate, and analyze large and complex datasets.
* Working knowledge of relational databases and data query tools; proficiency in SQL preferred.
* Strong statistical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to interpret analytical results and clearly document methodologies, findings, and conclusions.
* Ability to identify opportunities to streamline reporting processes and improve data workflows.
* Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, Access, and Outlook.
* Ability to communicate complex analyses through clear data visualizations, reports, and presentations tailored to technical and non-technical audiences.
* Ability to collaborate with stakeholders to translate business needs into analytical solutions and actionable insights.
* Ability to manage multiple projects independently, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
* Ability to promote data literacy and support effective data use across the institution.
* Understanding of data governance principles, including data definitions, standards, and data quality management.
This position is assigned a hybrid work arrangement (on-campus and remote), the duration of this hybrid work arrangement is at the discretion of Temple University and the Department.
Temple University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all in every aspect of its operations, including employment, service, and educational programs. The University has pledged not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, marital status, national origin or ethnic origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or veteran status.
Compliance Statement: In the performance of their functions as detailed in the position description employees have an obligation to avoid ethical, legal, financial and other conflicts of interest to ensure that their actions and outside activities do not conflict with their primary employment responsibilities at the institution. Employees are also expected to understand and be in compliance with applicable laws, University and employment policies and regulations, including NCAA regulations for areas and departments which their essential functions cause them to interact.
Temple University’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains statistics, policies, and procedures related to campus safety. Go here to review: https://safety.temple.edu/reports-logs/annual-security-report
You may request a copy of the report by calling Temple University’s Department of Public Safety at 215-204-7900.
Primary Location
: Pennsylvania-Philadelphia-Main Campus-Wachman Hall
Job
: Staff
Schedule
: Full-time
Shift
: Day Job
Employee Status
: Regular
Annual salary information is not provided for this position. Explore salary ranges for similar roles in our Salary Directory ›
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