Director of Research (Volunteer)

About the role

The Director of Research (Volunteer) at PromiseMeasure | Research, Data & Impact Organization Mentor A Promise (MAP) leads MAP's research strategy, design, and implementation across programs and initiatives. This role ensures that research efforts are rigorous, ethical, and aligned with MAP's mission, while generating insights that inform program improvement, policy engagement, and long-term impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of MAP’s research strategy and priorities
• Design research frameworks aligned with program goals and impact measurement
• Guide qualitative and quantitative research initiatives across MAP programs
• Collaborate with Data & Product teams to align research with the PromiseInsight platform
• Ensure ethical, trauma-informed, and consent-based research practices
• Support development of reports, briefs, and research publications
• Translate research findings into actionable insights for program and leadership teams
• Collaborate with Policy & Advocacy teams to inform systems-level work
• Maintain timely, professional responsiveness via email and chat in Google Workspace

Qualifications

• Required: Background in research, social science, evaluation, or related field; Experience designing and implementing research studies or program evaluations; Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills; Ability to translate research into practical insights; Alignment with MAP’s mission and dignity-centered values
• PREFERRED: Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant field; Experience in nonprofit, education, or youth-serving research; Familiarity with mixed-methods research approaches; Experience with data ethics, privacy, and research compliance

What You’ll Gain

• Leadership experience shaping research strategy in a mission-driven organization
• Opportunity to influence program design and long-term impact
• Collaboration with data, product, and policy teams
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• Meaningful role advancing evidence-based practice and systems change

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply directly through Idealist and submit:

• Resume (required)
• Cover letter (required) describing relevant research experience and interest in MAP’s mission

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our organization. At this time, volunteer opportunities are limited to individuals based in the United States due to legal, safeguarding, data-privacy, and programmatic requirements. We appreciate your interest in our mission and your understanding of these constraints.