Position Summary
Dr. Sara Schmitt, faculty in SPECS, is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time postdoctoral scholar to engage in several different research projects in her lab, which focuses on 1) identifying contextual and individual predictors and correlates of self-regulation and school readiness in early childhood, 2) designing and evaluating targeted interventions, curricula, and policies to enhance these skills in children from minoritized populations (e.g., those living in poverty). These research lines are in the service of detecting and preventing early learning problems and, ultimately, reducing socioeconomic disparities as children make their way through formal schooling.
The purpose of this position is to provide a postdoctoral scholar with opportunities to develop research and scholarship skills in the field of EI/ECSE. The postdoctoral scholar will write and publish peer-reviewed research reports, collaborate with lab members and school staff on intervention implementation, contribute to and/or lead the writing of grant proposals, and provide mentorship to undergraduate and graduate students.
The postdoctoral scholar will receive mentorship from Dr. Schmitt in self-regulation, school readiness, intervention development, implementation science, and grant writing, and will receive professional development to support the scholar in pursuing a successful career in a research position (e.g., tenure line faculty).
The position is a limited-duration appointment potentially renewable for up to a total of two years.
Minimum Requirements
• Ph.D. in early childhood education, special education, human development and family sciences, psychology or related field by start of position.
• Demonstrated experience with human subjects research, particularly children.
• Documented experience publishing research.
Professional Competencies
• Demonstrated effectiveness in working with children from racial and ethnic minoritized and/or lower socioeconomic status backgrounds
• Demonstrated effectiveness working with schools or other community organizations
• Familiarity with statistical modeling (e.g. use of structural equation modeling, hierarchical linear modeling, regression analyses).
• Interpersonal skills that foster teamwork and collaboration, the ability to work effectively individually and as part of a team, and the ability to coordinate multiple projects and staff
• Excellent scientific writing ability and effective communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with IRB protocol preparation
• Advanced skills in data management and analysis.
• Demonstrated experience collaborating in research workgroups.
• Demonstrated experience delivering professional workshops and conference presentations.