Apply now Job no:499906
College / VP Area: College of Educ & Human Dev
Work type:Staff
Location:Newark
Categories:Research & Laboratory, Full Time

The postdoctoral researcher will support the second phase of research for the NSF-funded project Improving Professional Development in Mathematics by Understanding the Mechanisms that Translate Teacher Learning into Student Learning. The project is investigating how the knowledge and skills teachers acquire through an ongoing coaching-based professional development program translate into more ambitious mathematics teaching and richer student learning. We aim to develop, test, and refine a theory of action that predicts the obstacles teachers will face as they apply their learning to their classroom teaching plus the contextual supports that help teachers surmount these obstacles. We are following two cohorts of Delaware teachers, grades 4-7, for several years to trace growth in teacher learning, changes in teaching practices, and increases in student learning.

For the 3rd and 4th years of the project (beginning Summer 2023), we will gather data frequently on how teachers analyze teaching, plan and implement targeted mathematics lessons, and describe the benefits and challenges of changing their practices. We will also follow coaches’ experiences during this time as well as assess changes in students’ learning on the targeted topics.

Within this role, the postdoctoral researcher will receive mentored professional development, research training, support for conference travel, and support toward individual professional goals.

The salary for this position is supported by a research grant from the National Science Foundation and includes a comprehensive benefits package.

Major Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and manage the data collection process, including coordinating with the professional learning facilitators, coaches, and teachers to arrange for data collection, and assisting with video-recording classroom targeted lessons;
• Ensure appropriate data transfer and storage;
• Assist with coding and analyzing data, preparing conference proposals, and writing manuscripts for publication;
• Participate in, and conduct observations of, professional learning experiences;
• Ensure compliance with human participant policies and procedures;
• Pursue personal research interests related to project goals.

Qualifications: 

• PhD or EdD (degree completion by August 2023) in mathematics education or a related field.
• Teaching K-12
• Managing and organizing data collection and analysis
• Facilitating teacher learning / professional development
• Communicating with school personnel
• Working as a member of a research and development team
• Professional writing
• Demonstrated understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.

Application Instructions

Please submit the following:

• One-page cover letter summarizing qualifications and experience, interest in the project, and career / research goals
• Resume (CV)
• One example of professional writing
• Contact information for three contact references

Review of candidates will begin April 30, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is July 1, 2023.

Send queries about the position to Jim Hiebert at hiebert@udel.edu.

Notice of Non-Discrimination, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
The University of Delaware does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, disability, religion, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in its employment, educational programs and activities, admissions policies, and scholarship and loan programs as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies. The University of Delaware also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence.

Applications close:Open until filled

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