Post Doctoral Associate

This position is at the Learning Research and Development Center (LRDC), a multi-disciplinary center for research to advance the science of learning and improve education practice and opportunities for all. The LRDC seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow in applied developmental science.

This position will provide interdisciplinary training in community engaged and policy-relevant research, as well as numerous opportunities to engage in mentored and independent scholarship to promote early career development. The postdoctoral fellow will analyze longitudinal data from multiple cohorts of toddlers and preschoolers (2020-2024) and write manuscripts from the Parents Promoting Early Learning (PPEL) project (https://lrdc.pitt.edu/ppel/). In addition, this project is engaged in research-practice partnerships (RPP) throughout the region to support and measure early learning ecosystem quality, particularly among organizations serving low-income households. The successful candidate will support ongoing RPP design and implementation, assist with manuscript writing, and collaborate on federal grant applications to further this work.

The postdoctoral fellow position is a one-year, full-time non-tenured appointment beginning on or before July 1, 2024. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Compensation will include health insurance and funds for professional development. Although the initial appointment is for one year, the postdoctoral fellow will be considered for ongoing employment based on performance review.

This position requires the following PA Act 153 clearances and background checks prior to commencement of employment and as a condition of continued employment: PA State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance.

Qualifications
Education: PhD in developmental psychology, human development, learning sciences, public policy, or a related discipline

Skills:
• Expertise in early child development, contextual influences on early learning (e.g., family, preschool, policy, etc.), and mixed methods research
• Data collection design and administration (e.g., interviews, survey design, child assessments)
• Quantitative data analysis, using Stata, R, or MPlus to analyze longitudinal data, including tests of mediation and moderation, and measurement models.
• Qualitative data analysis
• Verbal and written communication, including strong interpersonal skills and excellent scientific writing skills
• Strong organizational skills

Please include the following with application:
• Cover letter
• CV
• List of 3 references (who will, if asked, be willing to provide a letter of recommendation)
• 2 writing samples

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. In order to ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 3/31/2024.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.