Position Overview
Research Associate at WolfBrown | Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Research
Position Availability: June 1, 2026
WolfBrown, an internationally recognized consulting firm specializing in the arts and cultural sector, collaborates with stakeholders across the field to build a more equitable, pluralistic, and sustainable future for artists, organizations, and community ecosystems. Our team tackles some of the sector’s most stubborn, long-term challenges often in collaboration with innovative non-profit organizations, foundations, and government agencies.
We currently seek a Research Associate to support qualitative and quantitative research projects focused on the arts, culture, and research documenting the impact of the arts on human lives. The Research Associate plays a key role in designing, executing, and translating our research into actionable insights for cultural institutions, foundations, and public agencies. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented, analytically strong researcher with a passion for equity, learning, and cultural impact.
The position is 100% full-time (40 hrs/week) and requires a minimum of two days a week in the Cambridge offices of WolfBrown. The salary range is $70,000-$80,000 annually based on education and experience, plus benefits.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the design and implementation of mixed-methods research studies, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and longitudinal analyses;
- Clean, analyze, and interpret quantitative and qualitative data using tools such as Excel, Salesforce, and statistical or qualitative analysis software;
- Participate in client-facing work, including interviews, site visits and observations, meetings, and presentations;
- Contribute to research for national clients and partners, including foundations, arts organizations, and government agencies;
- Assist with database development, data quality assurance, and documentation of research protocols;
- Collaborate with project teams to manage timelines, track deliverables, and ensure research accuracy and rigor;
- Participate in internal learning, research discussions, and knowledge-sharing across the firm;
- Synthesize findings into clear, compelling written and visual products such as reports, presentations, memos, and client deliverables that are both analytically rigorous as well as graphically engaging;
- Other tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree, coursework, or work experience in social sciences, humanities, public policy, education, or related field preferred;
- Demonstrated experience with research methods, data analysis, or program evaluation;
- Strong analytical, writing, and synthesis skills, with the ability to translate data into accessible insights;
- Experience working with databases, spreadsheets, or CRM systems (e.g., Excel, Salesforce) preferred;
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously;
- Commitment to equity, access, and inclusion in the arts and cultural sector.
Preferred Experience
- Experience with arts, culture, education, or nonprofit research;
- Familiarity with longitudinal studies and program evaluation;
- Experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including educators, artists, and institutional partners.
Application
- To apply, send materials to Claire Pavlik Purgus at:
- Include:
- Brief (no more than one page) cover letter summarizing your interest and fit for this job
- Resume
- Two samples of recent research work, preferably at least one on which you were the lead and one on which you collaborated as a member of a team
You will hear from us within two weeks regarding next steps. If you progress to an interview, we will also ask you for three references from employers, clients, and collaborators.