Junior Research Strategist

About Gensler

Gensler is a global design firm dedicated to creating people-centered, innovative solutions. With a collaborative, inclusive culture and a mission to "Create a Better World Through the Power of Design," Gensler integrates diverse perspectives to foster resilient, equitable communities and cities worldwide.

Role Overview

The Junior Research Strategist will expand the firm's research efforts, focusing on trends, forecasting, ethnography, and qualitative studies. This position emphasizes understanding social dynamics and delivering insights for designers to create meaningful spaces that enhance community connections, particularly through lifestyle research.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute primary and secondary research projects.
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data from diverse sources, including interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic work.
• Identify and interpret emerging cultural and design trends through signal detection.
• Craft engaging narratives and deliverables across formats such as detailed reports, short videos, and trend forecasts.
• Collaborate with internal design and strategy teams to integrate research insights into client projects.
• Contribute an entrepreneurial mindset to grow Gensler’s innovative research initiatives.

Qualifications

• 2 to 4 years of relevant professional experience combining research with journalism, social media, trend analysis, cultural studies, and/or forecasting.
• Deep curiosity about human behavior, motivations, and the impact of design on social connectivity.
• Excellent storytelling and editorial skills to effectively communicate insights in a crowded information environment.
• Strong writing portfolio demonstrating newsworthiness and insight generation.
• Ability to work independently while valuing collaborative teamwork.
• Adaptable to dynamic work conditions requiring rapid iteration and shifts between group and solo tasks.
• Self-driven and entrepreneurial spirit.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Eagerness to learn and apply new technologies such as AI and data visualization tools.
• Bachelor's degree in psychology, social sciences, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite is advantageous.

Compensation and Benefits

The estimated base salary ranges from $75,000 to $85,000 annually, supplemented by bonuses and benefits dependent on experience. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability coverage, wellness programs, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays and time off, 401(k) plans, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and biannual bonuses.

Gensler also supports professional growth through reimbursement of licensure fees and eligible educational programs.

Work Culture and Inclusion

Gensler values work-life balance with initiatives like art exhibits, design competitions, and wellness events. The firm is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer committed to fair employment practices regardless of protected status. Applicants with disabilities or protected veterans are encouraged to apply, and accommodations are available as needed.

The recruitment process respects privacy and security, proactively advising applicants to remain vigilant against fraud.