Applications are invited for a research associate in Physics Education in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Michigan State University for the fall of 2019. The successful candidate for the current position will work on a team analyzing interviews and observational data from science students from a critical theory and socialized narratives perspective. Data is drawn from area two-year colleges and cohort programs designed to support diverse student populations in earning STEM bachelor degrees.
Responsibilities include working in coordination with faculty at Washtenaw Community College, Mott Community College, and faculty in the College of Natural Sciences at Michigan State to:
- develop and conduct interviews/observational studies at all three institutions about students’ mindset and self-efficacy to complete a natural science degree;
- code and analyze interviews and observational data with students from across the colleges;
- utilize findings to inform program design and revision;
- publish findings in physics and other science education journals.
The candidate will collaborate with faculty, post-docs, and graduate students in the Physics Education Research Lab (http://perl.pa.msu.edu/). The Physics Education Research Lab at MSU is a dynamic community that includes 5 principal faculty, 4 research associates, 8 graduate students, and several undergraduate students.
The appointment is initially for one year, with the possibility of 1-year extension, based on performance and the availability of funding. The salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Appointment is contingent upon successfully completing a full background check.
Required Degree
Doctorate
Minimum Requirements
Candidates are expected to hold a Ph.D. in physics education, science education, the learning sciences, or a closely related field with preference to candidates with graduate or postdoctoral experience in the area of qualitative analysis and racialized narratives. Explicit experience with critical theory and socialized narratives is not required. These theories are a substantial component of this project, those interested in learning should still apply. The successful candidate will demonstrate outstanding mentoring skills, strong learning theories background, excellent writing skills, andthe ability to work with undergraduate students, grad students, faculty, and staff in a collaborative environment
Required Application Materials
Applicants should submit a CV, and a statement of research interests. In addition, applicants should arrange for three (3) letters of recommendation to be submitted to the same posting.
Review of applications will begin August 1, 2019 and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions regarding the position may be directed to Prof. Vashti Sawtelle, co-director of the Physics Education Research Lab at MSU, vashtis@msu.edu.
Special Instructions
Review of applications will begin August 1, 2019 and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions regarding the position may be directed to Prof. Vashti Sawtelle, co-director of the Physics Education Research Lab at MSU, vashtis@msu.edu.
Review of Applications Begins On
08/01/2019
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
Advertised: Jul 22, 2019 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 22, 2021 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 22, 2021 Eastern Daylight Time
