Communications and Research Associate

The Oklahoma Center for Education Policy (OCEP), housed at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa, seeks a Research and Communications Associate to support the Center’s research, communications, and external engagement efforts. This position will work closely with the Executive Director to help translate research into accessible content for policymakers, educators, journalists, and the public.

The Research and Communications Associate will play an important role in expanding OCEP’s reach and impact by supporting research projects, managing communications channels, coordinating social media and digital outreach, and helping track the policy and media impact of the Center’s work. The ideal candidate will have strong writing and organizational skills, an interest in education policy, and a commitment to evidence-based policymaking in Oklahoma.

This position is well suited for a recent college graduate or early-career professional interested in policy, education, research organizations, or public policy communications.

Key Responsibilities
Communications and Public Engagement

Manage the dissemination of OCEP publications, blog posts, and public-facing research summaries.

Assist in drafting website content, email communications, and other public materials related to OCEP research.

Manage OCEP’s social media presence and contribute to the development of digital communication strategies to expand the Center’s reach.

Prepare media materials and communications related to new research releases.

Impact Tracking and External Relations

Maintain systems to track the impact of OCEP research, including media mentions, policy citations, and stakeholder engagement.

Assist with outreach to policymakers, education leaders, journalists, and partner organizations.

Coordinate events such as research briefings, policy discussions, and public forums hosted by OCEP.

Administrative and Project Coordination

Provide logistical and organizational support for research projects and public events.

Assist with project timelines, document management, and coordination across OCEP initiatives.

Research Support

Assist with the production of research reports, policy briefs, and other publications related to Oklahoma education policy.

Conduct literature reviews, data collection, and basic data analysis to support research projects.

Assist with preparing charts, tables, and summaries for reports and presentations.

Support the organization and documentation of datasets used in OCEP research.

Minimum Qualifications

Strong writing and communication skills.

Demonstrated interest in education policy or improving educational outcomes.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working or volunteering in education policy, public policy, research organizations, government, or nonprofit organizations.

Experience with communications, social media management, or digital content development.

Familiarity with customer relations managements strategies and software.

Experience supporting research projects or policy analysis.

About the Oklahoma Center for Education Policy
The Oklahoma Center for Education Policy (OCEP) conducts research and analysis to inform education policy in Oklahoma. Housed at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa, the Center produces analysis, research reports, and public events aimed at improving educational outcomes and expanding opportunity for students across the state.

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