Science and Mathematics Education
The Institute for Science and Mathematics Education seeks a post-doctoral research scientist position to contribute and help lead our portfolio of research and development projects. The Institute develops partnerships between University groups and external educational organizations—focused on both formal and informal learning environments—to improve and study K-12 science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education with an equity focus. We pursue this work from a science of learning perspective in STEM education projects by leveraging and building upon research literatures on learning and STEM education while we develop educational models and principles of learning. For more information on the Institute, please see the web site (http://sciencemathpartnerships.org/).
The ideal candidate for this position would join the Institute team and bring a scholarly background in the learning sciences, science education, STEM education from a disciplinary field, or related field. He/she would be able to help conceptualize, direct, and conduct R&D projects that relate to the Institute’s mission. The projects initially associated with this position focus on the design of technology-intensive science curriculum—in the areas of biology and environment science—for use in high poverty schools and associated learning studies of how and why youth learn science across social settings. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will also work on other research and development efforts funded in the Institute. Generally, the ideal candidate would have experience conducting design-based research with a focus on project-based and culturally relevant science instruction.
Essential function: This research scientist would participate in research activities assisting and collaborating with Professor Philip Bell, the director of the Institute, and in collaboration with other Institute staff and collaborators at other institutions. The postdoctoral scholar would be responsible for coordinating and carrying out curriculum development efforts and professional development events for the learning communities as well as collecting, organizing and interpreting learning data and literature, and carrying out related research and administrative tasks as needed. The scholar would take on associated administrative responsibilities in the Institute.
Minimum qualifications: A Ph.D. in a relevant field is required. The ideal candidate will be flexible, dependable, and meticulous, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Organizational skills are essential. The candidate must be able to work independently as well as be a collaborative, cooperative, and congenial member of a close knit scholarly team. In addition, the candidate must collaborate with staff from external design and education organizations. Excellent interpersonal skills and in particular the demonstrable ability to build rapport with K-12 students and teachers is needed. Enthusiasm for a purposive, collegial, and multifaceted organizational culture is essential. The ideal candidate would have a strong interest in how people learn (broadly understood), in design research focused on technologies and communities, and in qualitative methods for studying people and communities. The candidate should possess advanced fluencies with digital and social media, especially as it relates to the design of learning experiences and communities. They should be deeply familiar with technologies used to conduct research on learning.
Desirable qualifications: Educational research experience and participation in a field of science would be an advantage.
Salary: Commensurate with candidate experience.
How to apply: Please submit: (a) a brief letter of interest, (b) a CV, (c) a single writing sample most appropriate to the described position, and (d) names and contact information for 3 references. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
Please send application materials to:
Professor Philip Bell
℅ Nancy Price
The LIFE Center
University of Washington
1100 NE 45th Ave NE Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98195
The University of Washington is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. The College of Education is building a culturally diverse faculty and strongly encourages female and minority candidates.
