Chief of Research for the Partnership for Leaders in Education

The University of Virginia seeks applicants for a senior leader to serve as Chief of Research for the Partnership for Leaders in Education (PLE) http://www.darden.virginia.edu/web/darden-curry-ple/.  PLE strategically combines the most innovative thinking in business and education to prepare and strengthen education leaders for the unique demands of managing schools and school systems. The selected candidate will also hold a secondary faculty appointment in the Curry School of Education. We seek someone eager to build a robust research arm within the PLE, dedicated to impacting the success of school system leadership on the education of children. The selected candidate works with the Executive Director, other senior program staff, and an engagement committee of faculty to build this research arm and establish the PLE as a national go-to program for insight and research on education systems leadership.

The Chief of Research is responsible for leading a program of research focused on understanding the role of school system leadership and maintaining a K12 leadership line of scholarly inquiry. This includes evaluating the impact of PLE programs on student achievement and leadership development, leveraging research on the PLE’s programs as a foundation for broader impact of the field, and building on PLE’s existing research on turnaround leadership competencies to explore research questions around the impact of leadership selection, development and actions on K12 organizational outcomes. This selected candidate also serves as point person for the PLE’s partnership with the Center on School Turnaround. Duties and responsibilities also include applying for extramural funding, building collaborative relationships with educational leaders across the Commonwealth and nation, collaborating with faculty colleagues and other senior leaders across grounds and serving as a mentor for graduate student research. The Chief of Research produces strategically chosen, comprehensive evidence-based reports and publishable manuscripts and related professional chapters as well as other forms of dissemination, including thought pieces based on descriptive evidence of promising practices.

A doctorate in education, education policy, economics, psychology, business, or a related field is required. An established line of research, and related scholarly activities and publications in school leadership, as well as a proven track record of receipt of extramural funding are preferred. Active participation in Education or related academic communities is also preferred. Expertise in data-informed education reform, including strong quantitative research skills are essential, as are excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. A track record of success in collaborating with teams of diverse stakeholders, including a history of highly collaborative research experience is essential. Candidates must be willing to travel approximately 10% of the time.

Charlottesville, Virginia is a charming college town with extraordinary cultural resources, and is regarded as one of the top places to live in the United States.

To apply, go to http://jobs.virginia.edu, search for posting number 0614991.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.