Data Visualization Research Analyst

Job Summary:

The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University is a pioneer in the science of science and innovation and is home to the first academic hub of its kind that brings together the world’s foremost experts in this area. The Northwestern Innovation Institute (NI) and the Center for Science of Science & Innovation (CSSI) are leading research hubs exploring diverse topics related to the science of science, computational social science, network science, and data visualization.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Data Visualization Research Analyst will be responsible for data visualization to bring complex scientific ideas to life through compelling, publication-quality visualizations and provides expertise in data management, quality assurance, analysis and reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop publication-ready figures and graphics for academic papers, presentations, and exhibits.
• Create interactive or web-based visualizations to communicate research findings.
• Develop motion graphics, videos, and illustrations for research outreach.
• Collaborate with researchers to translate complex data into clear and engaging visual narratives.
• (Preferred but not required) Experiment with generative AI models to enhance design workflows and create innovative visual representations.

A cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position must be submitted as part of the formal application. Please note, a portfolio and/or examples of relevant work is also required to be considered for this role and will be reviewed by the interview panel as part of the selection process.

Specific Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning:

• Partners with CSSI and NII researchers to define requirements based on business objectives.

Administration:

• Designs and prepares documentation for qualitative and quantitative data analysis and data visualization.
• Discuss findings with senior management.

Development

• Develop queries and quality metrics.
• Interprets results using a variety of techniques, ranging from simple data aggregation to more complex statistical analysis.
• Manages complex databases.

Performance

• Completes data cleaning and organizes data files for analysis.
• Reviews data and identifies quality issues.
• Presents findings in an appropriate manner.

Supervises

• Provides work direction and/or supervises staff such as team members, subordinates, contractors, vendors, students, etc.

Miscellaneous

Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in design, fine arts, computer sciences, or related field from an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• 2 years data analysis/report writing or similar experience required.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Outstanding artistic and design skills.
• Strong ability to translate complex data into visually engaging narratives
• Excellent communication skills for collaboration with researchers in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Adaptability and creativity to solve technical and design challenges.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• 4-6 years experience in data visualization, information design, or computational media
• Web-based data visualization experience (e.g., HTML5, CSS4, D3.js, Three.js).
• Motion graphic and video production experience (e.g., Premiere, After Effects).
• 3D modeling and rendering experience (e.g., Maya, RenderMan).
• Basic programming skills for interactive media (e.g., Python, Flask).

Target hiring range for this position will be $74,000 - $90,000 per year. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern’s . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View .

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