Postdoctoral Research Position in Behavioral Science related to Insurance

About the role

The Center for Insurance Policy and Research (CIPR) at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in behavioral science related to insurance. The position is full‑time, temporary, and remote, based out of the Kansas City, MO office with potential consideration for New York City or Washington, DC offices. It is a one‑year appointment with the possibility of a second year based on performance. The fellow will conduct applied research with public‑policy implications, work closely with CIPR researchers and NAIC staff, and have dedicated time to pursue related independent research interests. The role encourages publishing in peer‑reviewed journals, presenting at academic conferences, and developing collaborations with external scholars.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct research using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed‑methods approaches (e.g., surveys, experiments, focus groups, interviews, content analysis, behavioral data analysis, field research).
• Analyze data and present research results clearly in both written reports and oral presentations.
• Contribute to ongoing CIPR projects while pursuing independent, related research topics.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present at academic conferences.
• Develop collaborations with external scholars and engage in interdisciplinary conversations about communication, risk, consumer behavior, and public policy.
• Support CIPR’s mission to provide research and education that inform insurance regulators, policymakers, industry, and academia.

Requirements

• Ph.D. (or expected completion by fall 2026) from an accredited institution in behavioral science, decision science, economics, communication, risk management, insurance, or a related field, earned within the past two years.
• Research experience related to one or more of the following insurance issues: catastrophe and climate risk; availability, affordability, or cost; policyholder protection gaps and purchase decisions; artificial intelligence, data privacy, and cyber risk; health and long‑term care.
• Demonstrated ability to design and conduct research using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods.
• Strong skills in data analysis and clear communication of research findings.

Skills

• Proficiency with statistical and data‑analysis software.
• Experience with surveys, experiments, focus groups, interviews, content analysis, or behavioral data analysis.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.

Compensation

$83,500 – $88,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Schedule

Full‑time, temporary remote position based in Kansas City, MO (with possible placement in New York City or Washington, DC). One‑year term with potential extension for a second year.

Application Materials

• Cover letter detailing interest and fit for the position.
• Curriculum vitae.
• One or two representative publications or working papers.
• At least one letter of recommendation.

Tentative start date: January 2027.