Research Scientist Role at the University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute: A Deep Dive into Data and Democracy
Advancing Democracy Through Data Science
In an era where data intersects with every dimension of modern governance, applying rigorous research to promote transparency, fairness, and trust in democratic processes is more critical than ever. The University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute (DSI) invites applications for the highly specialized position of Research Scientist in the area of Data and Democracy.
This opportunity allows emerging or established scholars to engage in original, high-impact research at the intersection of computational analysis and public policy. The position is led by Professor Moon Duchin, whose renowned work in algorithmic redistricting and political fairness has helped shape national discourse on democratic integrity.
Join a transformative research initiative at the University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute as a Research Scientist, working on data-driven projects that advance fairness, transparency, and integrity in democratic systems under the leadership of Prof. Moon Duchin.
Position Summary: What to Expect as a Research Scientist
The Research Scientist will join a multidisciplinary team working on civic-impact research related to
Core Responsibilities
The appointed Research Scientist will be expected to following tasks:
Design, manage, and execute original research projects aligned with the Data and Democracy initiative.
Curate, manage, and analyze structured and unstructured datasets, often derived from electoral, demographic, and institutional sources.
Conduct comprehensive literature reviews to contextualize findings within broader academic and policy frameworks.
Collaborate on scholarly outputs including peer-reviewed publications, white papers, and policy briefs.
Serve as a mentor and collaborator with students, postdoctoral researchers, and institutional partners across DSI and the broader University.
Actively contribute to outreach efforts, public discussions, and interdisciplinary seminars that bridge data science with civic impact.
The position begins approximately in September 2025 and will be initially funded for one year.
The appointment might be renewed for up to two additional years, subject to continued project relevance and performance.
Ideal Profile: Who Should Apply
This role is tailored for researchers with both technical proficiency and a demonstrated commitment to ethics. The ideal applicant will hold a doctoral degree and have proven research
Key Qualifications
Applicants should ideally possess:
A Ph.D. in a relevant discipline, including but not limited to computer science, political science, statistics, applied mathematics, or public policy.
Proficiency in Python, R, or SQL, with experience in handling large civic datasets or spatial data being a distinct advantage.
A track record of peer-reviewed publications or substantial analytical contributions to prior projects.
Strong interest or prior exposure to redistricting, voting systems, social equity, or policy modeling.
Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary academic environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for both scholarly and non-academic audiences.
Researchers seeking a meaningful academic role with tangible policy impact will find this position deeply rewarding.
About the Data Science Institute (DSI), University of Chicago
The Data Science Institute at the University of Chicago serves as an epicenter for interdisciplinary scholarship in data and computation. With a focus on ethical AI, responsible data use, and civic applications of data science, DSI unites expertise from computing, social science, policy, and the humanities to confront contemporary societal issues.
Among its notable achievements, DSI leads pioneering initiatives
Algorithmic fairness and explainability
Electoral integrity and redistricting reform
Transparency in public data governance
Community-engaged tech policy development
Researchers at DSI have access to powerful computing infrastructure, high-quality datasets, and a network of leading scholars, making it one of the most intellectually stimulating environments in the country for data-driven social impact research.
Principal Investigator: Professor Moon Duchin
This position will be supervised by Prof. Moon Duchin, a distinguished researcher whose interdisciplinary work blends mathematics, political theory, and data ethics. Prof. Duchin is widely recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to mathematical redistricting, having advised U.S. courts, legislatures, and reform commissions on equitable mapmaking.
Her lab is known for producing theory-driven yet practically oriented outputs that inform state and national policy debates. Researchers under her mentorship benefit from a supportive and collaborative academic setting with strong connections to both scholarly and civic communities.
Distinguishing Features: Why This Role Matters
Unlike many purely academic appointments, this Research Scientist role integrates theory with measurable civic outcomes. Scholars will actively influence public policy, shape equitable algorithmic tools, and help create frameworks for data transparency and public trust.
Key Benefits
Affiliation with a globally recognized research university.
Involvement in high-visibility projects that inform legislative and policy reform.
Access to University of Chicago’s advanced data infrastructure.
Opportunity to contribute to interdisciplinary grant proposals and public scholarship.
Flexibility to explore independent research directions within the broader mission.
Application Process and Timeline
Start Date
Tentatively scheduled for September 2025
Appointment Duration
Initial term: 1 year
Renewal potential: Up to 2 additional years, based on project continuation and funding
Application Portal
Prospective applicants should monitor the official job listing on the University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute portal (link given below).
Equal Opportunity and Accessibility
The University of Chicago is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive academic community. The institution prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other protected class. Additional information can be found on the official Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Applicants who require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment or application process are encouraged to contact:
Equal Opportunity Office
📞 773-834-3988
📧 [email protected]
Conclusion: A Role That Shapes Data-Driven Democracy
As the intersection of data science and democracy becomes increasingly critical, roles like this offer a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful societal transformation. The Research Scientist position at the University of Chicago allows professionals to conduct rigorous research while directly informing policy, civic engagement, and algorithmic governance.
Whether you are a recent Ph.D. graduate looking to apply your expertise to high-impact projects or a mid-career researcher seeking a more civic-oriented research role, this position provides a rare platform to lead innovation with integrity and equity at its core.
Program Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Research Scientist – Data & Democracy Focus |
| Host Country / Region | United States – University of Chicago |
| Funded By | Data Science Institute, University of Chicago |
| Duration | 12 months, renewable up to 36 months total |
| Study Mode | Full-time, Onsite |
| Eligibility | Ph.D. holders in Data Science, Political Science, Applied Math, or similar |
| Financial Support | Salary-based support (competitive academic scale) |
| Fields of Study | Data Science, Political Science, Redistricting, Algorithmic Fairness |
| Application Deadline | September 2025 intake – Exact deadline to be updated soon |
| Official Website | Click Here |
References
University of Chicago – Data Science Institute
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Research Scientist leads original research, analyzes civic datasets, and collaborates on data-driven democracy projects under faculty supervision.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in data science, political science, mathematics, or related fields and demonstrate relevant research experience.
The position is expected to begin around September, with final dates announced on the university’s official recruitment page.
The initial term is one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to two more years based on performance and project needs.
Projects include algorithmic fairness, redistricting analysis, policy modeling, and civic data research focused on equitable representation.
While not required, experience in civic tech, elections, or public policy strengthens your application and research alignment.
Proficiency in Python, R, or SQL is preferred, especially for data cleaning, modeling, and visualization in civic research contexts.
Yes.
Applicants must submit a CV, cover letter, and research portfolio via the University of Chicago’s official job application portal.
It offers a rare chance to influence real-world policy through data, working with renowned scholars on democracy-enhancing initiatives.
