Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Development Tufts University

The Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University seeks a qualified Ph.D.-level researcher for a postdoctoral research positions.  The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of extension for an additional 1-2 years.  The position involves work on several research projects pertinent to the longitudinal study of positive youth development.  The projects are at various stages of design and implementation and involve both quantitative and qualitative developmental data.

The Institute needs a highly-motivated individual able to work efficiently and productively in a fast-paced, multifaceted research environment.  Based on the various needs of the projects, the candidate should be able to work successfully as a team member on some project goals and independently on others.  Flexibility in work hours and availability for travel is essential.

The individual will play a large role in the design and implementation of all aspects of several new studies of adolescents and young adults.   This work will involve design, organization, and maintenance of cohort sequential longitudinal data sets.   Although we are seeking a fellow with expertise in quantitative analysis, due to the presence of both quantitative and qualitative aspects of all studies, candidates with backgrounds in mixed methods are desirable.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Development of measures for studying youth development, broadly construed; Managing the overall logistical tasks of longitudinal projects including data collection methods, IRB approval and site outreach and communication; Supervising and mentoring graduate students; Data management and analysis of large sample multi-method data, including longitudinal data; Presentation of research findings at national and international meetings; Publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals and special interest publications; Grant writing and report writing for funders; Contributing to general project oversight and management.

Requirements
Ph.D. or Ed.D. in a social science field with a focus on adolescent development (psychology, sociology, child development, family studies, education); Knowledge of advanced quantitative statistical methods (e.g., confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation models, multi-level models) and/or qualitative methods (e.g., including different software packages, coding procedures, and knowledge of mixed method approaches). Demonstrated interest and commitment to work in youth development; Enthusiasm for intellectual rigor and engagement; Excellent writing ability and publication record; Ability and willingness to work productively in a fast-paced and often demanding environment, with deadlines; Experience working in a team environment; ability to work both independently and collaboratively; Good interpersonal skills.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled.  Please send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, 2-3 publications, and the names and contact information of three references to:

Heidi Johnson, Managing Director
Tufts University, Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development
301 Lincoln-Filene
Medford MA 02155
heidi.johnson@tufts.edu

More information is available at http://ase.tufts.edu/iaryd/ . Applications will be considered until the position is filled.