Postdoctoral Researcher
Postdoctoral Researcher
The George Mason University College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason’s academic and culturally inclusive environment.
About the Position:
We are seeking a full-time (40 hours weekly) Postdoctoral Researcher to support one project beginning immediately and lasting for one year. The goal of this project is to enhance and support literacy initiatives for Virginia educators, students, and families with emphasis on mitigating missed learning opportunities due to the ongoing pandemic. This work will include developing a literacy teacher needs assessment leading to targeted professional learning modules as part of a statewide professional development program for K-12 teachers. Other responsibilities will include reviewing development and analyzing data from other program components such as side-by-side tutoring for students, and a robust family program with online and in-person outreach. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work with faculty, university students, and project directors to develop, launch, and analyze aspects of the literacy initiative according to our timeline.
The Postdoctoral Researcher will work with project directors and staff to develop a literacy needs assessment that will probe teachers’ literacy knowledge and classroom pedagogical practices. The assessment instrument will be developed, piloted, and revised towards initial validation during the project period to create a useful tool for K-12 literacy teacher support. The Postdoctoral Researcher must have clear knowledge of Qualtrics survey tools and broad knowledge of quantitative analysis techniques to lead analysis efforts. Further, given the nature of the work, the Postdoctoral Researcher must have knowledge of research-based literacy practices and classroom teaching experience to ensure the inclusion of practical, high-leverage literacy practices to improve student outcomes. The Postdoctoral Researcher will contribute to project development and dissemination including presentations and papers.
While some aspects of the work can be completed virtually, at least three days per week of in-person work is expected.
Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will possess understanding of literacy research and development, instrument development and validation, excellent communication and organizational skills, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of literacy development and classroom literacy teaching experience is required.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references with contact information.
Equity Statement:
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.