Principal Researcher, Prescription Drug Policy

Principal Researcher, Prescription Drug Policy American Institutes for Research $155,700—$190,000 USD United States, North Carolina, Chapel Hill 100 Europa Dr Ste 315 (Show on map) May 12, 2026 Join AIR as a Principal Researcher, Prescription Drug Policywith our Healthcare Innovations team. This positionleads complex

CMS/CMMI

prescription drug policy research, drives federal business development, and provides senior expertise on drug pricing and payment models to generate rigorous, actionable evidence for policymakers. The Principal Researcher will report into AIR's Healthcare Innovations Team, which supports high-quality implementation and produces rigorous evidence on the effectiveness of new approaches to care and payment-translating findings into actionable insights for policymakers, payers, providers, and patients. This position has the flexibility to work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of AIR's U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

About AIR:

Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Responsibilities:

The responsibilities for the position include: Leads project and task execution and business development, specifically for work conducted for CMS and the CMS Innovation Center (CMMI). Directs execution of large complex projects or portfolio of smaller projects; oversees the planning, design, and implementation of project procedures. Provides senior subject matter expertise related to prescription drug prescribing, pricing, and rebate programs to delivery teams and/or proposal teams. Leads proposal efforts including review of proposals for sound practices and techniques, briefings, and client relation/development activities. Serves as industry expert for alternative payment models, value-based reimbursement, or Medicare payment policies, especially as they relate to prescription drug policies and pricing. Effectively coaches and manages others to promote their development; sets developmental goals and measurements for staff. Fosters an environment that values a wide range of perspectives, experiences, backgrounds, and individual strengths.

Qualifications:

Education, Knowledge, and Experience Ph.D. in Economics, Health Services Research, Pharmacoeconomics or a related field with a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience managing and conducting research or related work or Master's degree and at least 11 years of relevant experience. Minimum of 5 years of experience leading or managing large federal contracts. Direct experience on prior or current CMMI alternative payment model contracts or CMS drug pricing programs. Proven track record of winning new business with CMS, AHRQ, or other HHS agencies. Extensive knowledge of Medicare payment policy, Medicare Advantage, and/or Medicaid. Knowledge of Medicare claims, provider claims, survey data, and publicly available datasets, including Part D encounter data and other prescription drug event data. Skills Strategic thinker with the ability to align research with policy and practice needs. Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to synthesize and present complex findings to varied audiences. Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities. Advanced project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and relationship-building. Commitment to equity, rigor, and innovation in research.

Disclosures:

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements. American Institutes for Research is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks. AIR maintains a drug-free work environment.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please send an email to Taliba Boone at tboone@air.orgor call 202.403.5000.

Fraudulent Job Scams Warning & Disclaimer:

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LI-REMOTE

AIR's Total Rewards Program, is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers the anticipated annual salary as listed. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States. Anticipated Annual Salary Range $155,700 — $190,000 USD