Qualitative Researcher (Contractor Position) – Understanding Threats and Harassment (UTH) Project - The Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI) – Princeton School of Public and International Affairs

The Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI) at Princeton University is seeking a Qualitative Researcher (Contractor) to support its Understanding Threats and Harassment (UTH) project, which studies how threats and harassment impact local officials and democratic governance in the U.S. This part-time, remote role involves conducting trauma-informed, semi-structured interviews with local officials, coding and analyzing qualitative data, and contributing to reports and briefings that translate findings into actionable insights for policymakers and community leaders. The ideal candidate has 3–5+ years of experience in qualitative research, strong interpersonal and organizational skills, and a deep commitment to supporting civil society and democratic resilience.

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Organization Name:
The Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI) – Princeton School of Public and International Affairs

Role Title:
Qualitative Researcher (Contractor Position) – Understanding Threats and Harassment (UTH) Project

Employment Type:
Part-time, Contract (One-year term, with possibility of extension)

Compensation:
$50/hour, approximately 20 hours per month

Location:
Remote (Work must be performed within the United States)

Link to Apply:
Email resume and cover letter to [email protected] with “UTH Qualitative Researcher” in the subject line.
For more information about BDI, visit https://bridgingdivides.princeton.edu.

Position Overview:
The Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI) at Princeton University seeks a Qualitative Researcher (Contractor) to support its Understanding Threats and Harassment Against Local Officials (UTH) project. This project advances research on how threats, harassment, and political hostility impact local officials and U.S. democracy.

The Qualitative Researcher will conduct trauma-informed, semi-structured interviews with local officials, manage and code qualitative data, and contribute to the analysis and dissemination of findings. This role is ideal for an experienced qualitative researcher who excels at conducting sensitive interviews, coding narrative data, and translating research into actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.

Key Responsibilities:
Conducting Interviews with Local Officials (60%)

• Conduct semi-structured, trauma-informed interviews with local officials on a semi-annual basis.
• Maintain accurate and confidential documentation (transcripts, notes, codes).
• Manage communications, outreach, scheduling, and follow-up with interview participants.
  
  

Qualitative Coding of Interviews (20%)

• Lead coding of qualitative interview data using established methodologies.
• Maintain and update project documentation (methodology, codebook, training materials).
  
  

Contribution to Research Outputs (20%)

• Deliver written memos summarizing qualitative findings to inform survey design and analysis.
• Draft or co-author sections of reports, briefs, and presentations.
• Provide timely, targeted analyses in response to internal or partner requests.

Qualifications:
Required:

• Experience conducting trauma-informed interviews.
• Strong organizational skills for managing scheduling, documentation, and communications.
• Expertise in qualitative analysis and iterative coding.
• Familiarity with U.S. local government systems.
• Commitment to civil society and democratic resilience.
• Strategic, creative approach to identifying trends and insights from qualitative data.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a remote team.
• 3–5+ years of relevant experience in research, policy, or community engagement.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field.
  
  

Preferred:

• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant discipline.
• Deep expertise in qualitative research methods.
• Prior experience working with or interviewing U.S. government officials.
• Experience managing qualitative datasets and using analysis software.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Asana, Slack, and Zoom.
• Experience writing policy-focused reports and memos.
• Ability to translate research findings for practitioner and policy audiences.

Application Instructions:
Please submit a resume and cover letter describing your qualifications and experience as they relate to this role and BDI’s mission. Highlight any experience with the U.S. political violence landscape, including threats, harassment, community engagement, or local democracy. Please include details of your experience conducting trauma-informed, semi-structured interviews and qualitative research.

Email applications to [email protected] with “UTH Qualitative Researcher” in the subject line. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
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Work authorization:
Work must be performed within the United States. Applicants must have sustained U.S. work authorization. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.