Postdoctoral Research Associate in Physics
Education Research Math Problem Solving 2021-2022
Applications
are invited for a postdoctoral research associate in Physics Education Research
(PER) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (U of I). The work of
the University of Illinois PER Group bridges fundamental principles of physics
cognition, learning, and understanding with large-scale, classroom
implementation.
The
primary duties of this position will be to work on research projects at the
intersection of physics problem solving, mathematical reasoning, and causal
reasoning in university physics contexts. This postdoc will work primarily with
Prof. Eric Kuo, but there will be opportunities to interface more broadly with
the University of Illinois PER group.
The
preferred start window is Summer 2021. The position is a full-time, 12-month
appointment that may be extended up to a maximum of two years. Candidates are
expected to have earned or be close to earning a Ph.D. in Physics Education
Research, Science Education, Learning Sciences, or a related field.
Duties:
·
Help shape the development of project research strands
·
Lead aspects of project design, data collection, analysis, and
project management
·
Collaborate with faculty, postdocs, graduate, and undergraduate
students
·
Present research through conference presentations and journal
articles
·
There are also opportunities to get involved on other projects
in the U of I PER group.
Desirable
qualifications (candidates need not have all of these):
·
Knowledge of the research literature on mathematical reasoning,
problem solving, and/or causal reasoning.
·
Ability to generate and select interesting research questions to
work on
·
Evidence of past research insights that advanced a research
project
·
Experience with quantitative research methods, including
experimental or within-subjects designs
·
Experience with qualitative research methods, including video
analysis in classroom, focus group, and interview settings
·
Experience working in collaborative teams on projects with high
logistical demands
·
Strong writing, communication, and/or presentation skills
·
Capacity and interest in supporting undergraduate and graduate
student research
·
A thoughtful perspective on how diversity, equity, and inclusion
in physics education can be advanced through research on mathematical
reasoning, problem solving, and/or causal reasoning.
Applications
should be submitted electronically at https://my.physics.illinois.edu/submit/go.asp?id=1585 and should include
a cover letter; CV; research statement; statement on diversity, equity, and
inclusion; and two letters of recommendation. Please direct questions about the
position to Eric Kuo (ekuo@illinois.edu). Review of applications will begin on
May 17, 2021 and will continue until the position is filled.
The
University of Illinois PER group welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds,
experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity, equity, and
inclusivity.
The
University of Illinois is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and
all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without
regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a
protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.
Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas
who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. For more information,
visit https://inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu.
Any
offer for this position is contingent upon the successful completion of a
criminal background check process in accordance with the University of Illinois
Background Check Policy.
