Principal Research Associate - AI in Education; Hybrid

TX - Austin

Westat is a leader in research, data collection and analysis, technical assistance, evaluation, and communications. Our evidence-based findings help clients in government and the private sector accelerate advancements in health, education, transportation, and social and economic policy. Our dedication to improving lives through research and our approach to projects grounded in investigative curiosity, statistical and data rigor, adaptive methods, and advanced technology are why clients find exceptional value in our work.

Westat is seeking a Principal Research Associate to join our Education Studies Practice supporting our Comprehensive Center teams. As a Principal Research Associate in Education Studies, you will lead capacity building activities to support educators and education agencies achieve their goals for effectively integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into policy and practice. As a leader and subject matter expert, you will engage with program directors, key members of project teams, and clients, to conceptualize initiatives, translate ideas into plans, and lead or oversee implementation.

You will also have the opportunity to lead and/or participate substantively in research/evaluation projects and business development. We value curiosity, innovation, and system-level thinking to contribute to projects that drive improved outcomes for our clients and ourselves internally.

This role offers a hybrid schedule, with 1-2 days a week onsite at one of our Westat offices in Bethesda, MD;
Durham, NC; or Austin, TX.

• Lead strategic, multi-level technical assistance initiatives for educators, school and district leaders, and education agencies on the use of AI methods, tools, and platforms.
• Design and implement capacity building initiatives focused on the design and implementation of AI-enabled solutions for instructional support, data analysis, and operational efficiency.
• Oversee development and delivery of trainings, workshops, and guidance tailored to the needs of education practitioners.
• Collaborate with constituents to ensure AI applications align with educational goals, ethical standards, and principles related to access.
• Translate complex AI concepts into accessible language and actionable approaches for non-technical audiences.
• Lead initiatives related to emerging AI technologies and implications for education, national/state/local AI governance policies, lessons learned from implementation successes/failures, and other topics related to AI implementation in education.
• Serve as a thought leader by shaping national discourse and contributing to publications and presentations related to best practices and effective AI use in education settings.
• Lead and mentor project teams, foster collaboration, and develop staff capacity in technical assistance and leadership related to AI.

• BA/BS with 15 or more years of relevant experience, or an MA/MS with 8 or more years of relevant experience, or a PhD and 5 or more years of relevant postdoctoral experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of/expertise in how AI methods (e.g., large language models, machine learning, predictive analytics, natural language processing) can be used to support decision-making or educational practice, with/including experience providing subject‑matter expertise to such efforts.
• Strong understanding of data privacy, ethics, and other issues related to AI in education.
• Experience working with vendors or developers of AI tools for education.
• Experience working in or with school systems, including familiarity with classroom, district, or state‑level operations.
• Experience providing technical assistance or professional development to educators or policymakers.
• Demonstrated communication and facilitation skills, especially with educator audiences.

• Advanced degree (Master's or higher) in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Information Systems, Education, Public Policy, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field.
• Familiarity with SEA policies and procedures.
• Familiarity with federal and state education…