The Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning (CASTL) in the University of Virginia (UVA) and the School of Education and Human Development seeks highly qualified applicants for a two-year post-doctoral research associate position. This position is part of the University of Virginia Post-Doctoral Education Science Training Program on English Learners (EL-VEST) funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences. The EL-VEST Postdoctoral Program is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare early career researchers to engage in rigorous research in education science focused on English Learners. EL-VEST is able to fund a cohort of two fellows to begin in 2022.

We seek applicants whose experiences and/or prior research motivates them to engage in research on English Learners (EL) and the classroom and instructional contexts that support the social and emotional development and academic outcomes of ELs. Fellows will receive training that deepens their understanding of the strengths and challenges faced by ELs particularly in school-based contexts. Fellows will also engage in experiences that give them hands-on experiences working with partners (districts, departments of education, education innovation organizations) addressing some of our most intractable challenges in supporting the achievement of EL students, their teachers, and schools. Finally, fellows will receive training in rigorous education research methods and statistics.

Fellows will work with either Sara Rimm-Kaufman or Natalia Palacios as their primary mentor and will develop a line of research that involves collaboration with one or more secondary mentors. Potential secondary mentors include Allison Atteberry, Chris Chang-Bacon, Jason Downer, Jennie Grammer, Colby Hall, Luke Miller, Judith Paulick, Jim Soland, Emily Solari, Jessica Whittaker, Amanda Williford, Vivian Wong and others. Fellows will become part of a network of post-doctoral trainees at the UVA School of Education & Human Development and research centers including, CASTL, EdPolicyWorks, and Youth-Nex.

A Ph.D. in Education, School and Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology, or a relevant social science discipline is required by the start date of the position. Evidence of substantive knowledge and background in the field of education and/or developmental science is essential. Strong evidence of expertise in quantitative methods is required. Prior experience engaging in research on English Learners and a strong track record of publication stemming from that work is strongly preferred. Strong communication and project management skills are required. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency status is required. The fellow will be appointed annually, and continuation is dependent upon satisfactory performance. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

To apply, visit https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and search Posting Number R0030894. Complete a Candidate Profile online and attach a cover letter describing your research training goals and line(s) of research and preferred primary and secondary mentors. Please also attach a curriculum vitae, one writing sample, and names from three references who can comment on your scholarly accomplishments and promise.

For questions about the position or application process, please contact Margaret Weeks, Recruiter at mew7ys@virginia.edu.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System and the University Physician’s Group are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person’s perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.