RAND is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges. This health sciences-focused role offers an opportunity for an experienced Research Informationist to provide expert research services to RAND's geographically diverse research and administrative staff. The position focuses primarily on health sciences research and evidence synthesis, and also contributes to general reference services across RAND's broader research portfolio. As a member of the Library Research Services team, the ideal candidate has demonstrated success providing high-level health sciences information services in a research or academic library setting. The role reports to the Director, Knowledge Services, and supports researchers including those in RAND's Cambridge, UK office (flexible scheduling for time zone differences). Hybrid remote/on-site work may be possible from the Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C. area, or Boston offices.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct systematic reviews and literature searches; compile bibliographies and prepare literature reviews, systematic search documentation, and annotated bibliographies
- Support evidence synthesis intake and protocol review; provide consultations and training on systematic and scoping review methods
- Assist researchers with proposal development by scoping topics, refining research questions, and selecting databases
- Build and deploy customized information and current awareness plans
- Evaluate and apply emerging technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to enhance research workflows
- Recommend best literature review and evidence synthesis methods and tools for project teams
- Participate in collection development and analyze collection metrics; contribute to outreach activities and service enhancements
Requirements:
- MS/MA in Library/Information Science
- Minimum 5 years of experience delivering reference and research consulting services in an academic or special library setting with a strong health sciences background (6-8 years preferred)
- Expertise in structured search strategies and controlled vocabularies (MeSH, Emtree) across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and multidisciplinary platforms
- Knowledge of evidence-synthesis standards such as PRISMA, PRESS, and Cochrane; grey literature searching experience
- Familiarity with AI-assisted evidence synthesis tools (Elicit, Covidence, DistillerSR) and EndNote
- Excellent communication, client service, and collaboration skills
Preferred: Alma/Primo experience, health sciences degree or study, background in economics, social sciences, education, or science/technology, AHIP membership and/or MLA SRSS certification.
Salary range: $88,000 – $130,900.
HOW TO APPLY:
Apply online through the RAND careers portal (Workday) using the application link.
https://rand.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/External_Career_Site/job/Washington-DC-DC-Metro-Area/Research-Informationist_R3633/apply