
AI Research Lead
Avanade
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Office
Location: Chicago • California • Illinois • United States
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Salary
💰 $155,000 - $195,000 per year
Job Level
Tech Stack
About the role
- Design and run research projects from scoping through analysis and insight generation, using mixed methods including surveys, interviews, experiments, and behavioral data analysis
- Develop and validate measurement instruments (scales, surveys, indices) with appropriate reliability and validity testing
- Apply rigorous quantitative methods—regression, multilevel models, factor analysis, experimental and quasi-experimental designs—to understand how AI and digital tools impact work outcomes
- Document methods, assumptions, and limitations transparently using reproducible, open approaches
- Explore how AI, automation, and digital ecosystems change jobs, skills, workflows, collaboration patterns, and team dynamics
- Analyze datasets including surveys, people analytics, collaboration data, and product usage data to generate evidence-backed insights
- Partner with engineering, product, and architecture teams to define what to measure, how to instrument systems, and how to evaluate impact
- Separate meaningful effects from hype using robust research design and critical analysis
- Build clear, executive-ready data visualizations and dashboards using Power BI or Python/R libraries that enable leaders to monitor workforce and AI-related metrics
- Apply best practices in psychometrics, data storytelling, and visual design so insights are interpretable and actionable for non-technical audiences
- Develop client-ready deliverables including white papers, executive briefings, and implementation frameworks that balance analytical rigor with clear business recommendations
- Develop executive briefs, slide narratives, and client one-pagers tailored to senior stakeholders
- Lead project workstreams within client engagements, facilitating workshops, and building client confidence in research-driven recommendations
- Mentor junior researchers and analysts, coaching them in research design, coding, analytics, visualization, and stakeholder engagement
- Contribute to shared research assets such as survey libraries, scale repositories, analysis templates, and visualization standards
- Foster a collaborative and growth-oriented culture where strong ideas are debated constructively
Requirements
- PhD strongly preferred, or Master’s degree, in Industrial Organizational Psychology, Organizational Behavior, Data Science, Quantitative Social Science, or a closely related field that combines people research and advanced analytics.
- 3+ years of applied research experience in industry, technology, consulting, or a similar environment conducting data-intensive, multi-stakeholder studies
- Proven ability to design and deliver workforce or organization-focused research using mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative)
- Experience working with or alongside technology and product teams, ideally with exposure to AI-enabled tools or digital collaboration environments
- Proven ability to work under ambiguity and time pressure while maintaining methodological integrity with comfort presenting to and being challenged by senior executives or clients
- Consulting, client-facing, or applied research experience strongly preferred
- Portfolio of research outputs such as reports, white papers, or analytical articles demonstrating depth and clear storytelling
- Ability to present complex findings to non-research audiences, including senior leaders and clients
- Strong stakeholder management skills—you build trust and collaborate across disciplines.
Benefits
- Opportunity to work for Microsoft’s Global Alliance Partner of the Year (14 years in a row), with exceptional development and training (minimum 80 hours per year for training and paid certifications)
- Real-time access to technical and skilled resources globally
- Dedicated career advisor to encourage your growth
- Engaged and helpful co-workers genuinely interested in you
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
quantitative methodsregressionmultilevel modelsfactor analysisexperimental designquasi-experimental designdata analysispsychometricsdata visualizationdata storytelling
Soft Skills
stakeholder managementcollaborationmentoringcommunicationproject managementcritical analysisadaptabilityclient engagementfacilitationexecutive presentation
Certifications
PhDMaster’s degree