North East Association for Institutional Research

Principal Institutional Research Analyst

Employer Info:

Boston University



http://www.bu.edu/

Boston University (BU) is the fourth largest private research university in the nation, 12th largest employer in Massachusetts, and the fourth largest employer in the City of Boston, with an endowment of $2.44B and annual operating budget of $2.75B. Founded in 1839, BU has grown to include 17 schools and colleges and the Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences, offering over 300 programs of study, with a low 10:1 student:faculty ratio. BU received $574.1M in sponsored research awards in FY2020 and was invited to join the prestigious Association of American Universities in 2012. The University places a strong emphasis on excellent scholarship, outstanding teaching, and interdisciplinary research, with major research initiatives in data sciences, antiracism, public health, neuroscience, systems biology, photonics, biomedical engineering, medicine, and emerging infectious diseases, along with communications, the humanities, and the arts. With nearly 34,000 undergraduate and graduate students from all 50 states and over 130 countries, and over 10,000 faculty and staff, discoveries and advances take place on our three Boston campuses. Our “affordableBU” program ensures access to a BU education regardless of family means, and our Pell Grant program guarantees eligible students a loan-free aid package. BU provides over $17M annually in financial aid to Boston Public School graduates and contributes $6.3M a year in PILOT payments to the City. U.S. News & World Report ranks BU among the top universities and named BU among the nation’s “Most Innovative Universities” for 2020.
Job Name
Principal Institutional Research Analyst
Posting Date
04/14/2026
Brief Description
Boston University is looking for a technically experienced Principal Institutional Research Analyst to support institutional research and student success initiatives. Reporting to the Director of Institutional Research, you will be responsible for collecting, managing, and analyzing complex institutional data to support data-informed decision-making across the university. A successful candidate leverages strong technical expertise in databases, scripting, automation, visualization, and approved web-based data collection to enhance reporting efficiency, transparency, and institutional effectiveness. This position is local remote with occasional meetings on campus and office space available for reservation.
Job Category
Institutional Research
Job Type
Full-Time
Education Level Required
Bachelors
Location City
Boston, MA 02215, United states
How to Apply
Please visit the website link to apply. If you require a reasonable accommodation in order to complete the employment application process, please contact the Equal Opportunity Office at 617-353-6474.
Direct Link
Click here for more info
Job Details
You Will:
  • Clean, integrate, and analyze data using SQL, Python, R, and Excel (can perform complex functions); automate workflows; and develop dashboards and reports while providing training and technical support.
  • Apply statistical and analytical methods (e.g., regression, trend analysis, predictive modeling) to produce meaningful insights.
  • Ensure data accuracy, privacy, and governance standards, and lead the preparation of external compliance reports (e.g., IPEDS, CDS, and accreditation).
Required Skills

You Will Have:
  • Proficiency in SQL, relational databases, and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI), with experience in Python, R, SPSS, APIs, and survey design.
  • Proven ability to analyze complex data, ensure accuracy through detailed validation processes, communicate technical information, and manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field such as Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Information Systems, or Education (advanced degree preferred) with several years of experience in data-focused roles.
Bonus Qualifications: If you do not meet these, you are still encouraged to apply; we value employees with a willingness to learn.
  • Knowledge of enrollment management and university admissions and financial aid processes and reporting, student success analytics, and accreditation requirements.
  • Knowledge of data privacy regulations such as FERPA and GDPR.