Postdoctoral Research AssociatePrinceton University

The Department of Sociology at Princeton University seeks applicants for multiple postdoctoral research associate positions or a more senior rank in the Eviction Lab at Princeton University. Successful candidates will have a Ph.D. and a background in statistics, quantitative social science, data science, economics, and/or computer science.

The term of appointment is based on rank. Positions as the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments.

The Eviction Lab at Princeton University is an interdisciplinary team who has built the first-ever national database of evictions in America. We have validated, mapped, and published our data through an interactive website (evictionlab.org). The Eviction Lab is currently working on a number of studies on the prevalence, causes, and consequences of housing displacement. Postdoctoral researchers will have access to novel and very large datasets not publicly released. The Eviction Lab is engaged in multiple long-term initiatives, including a Joint Statistical Project with the U.S. Census, which has allowed linking over 100 million eviction records with administrative databases and restricted-use files of the American Housing Survey.

We seek self-driven, creative thinkers with strong quantitative skills to work with a team of researchers to analyze large administrative data sets and coauthor papers reporting findings on housing instability, urban inequality, housing markets, and public policy. Successful candidates will be comfortable with management of large datasets and advanced statistical modeling or computer programming skills. Preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated experience with causal methods for observational data, spatial modeling, or other advanced quantitative methodologies. Previous experience working in a research team or lab is a plus. A working knowledge of the literature on housing instability and urban sociology is not required but useful; an intellectual interest in applying rigorous analysis techniques data to real-world problems is essential. Salary is competitive and is benefits eligible.

Initial review of applications will begin on October 15th. The position will remain open until filled. Materials submitted by regular mail or email will not be accepted.

These positions are not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing; other visa sponsorships (including H-1B visas not requiring consular processing) may be available, as appropriate.

This position is subject to Princeton University's background check policy.

Required qualifications:

• PhD
• Background in statistics, quantitative social science, data science, economics, and/or computer science
• Ability to manage large datasets and advanced statistical modeling or computer programming skills
• Intellectual interest in applying rigorous analysis techniques data to real-world problems

Preferred qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience with casual methods for observational data, spatial modeling or other advanced quantitative methodologies
• Previous experience working in a research team or lab
• Working knowledge of the literature on housing instability and urban sociology

Applicants should submit:

• A complete vitae
• A cover letter of interest
• Names and contact information of three persons who can serve as references
• A writing sample that includes quantitative analysis