UConn Careers

JOB SUMMARY

The Physics Department of the University of Connecticut invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate position in the area of Physics Education Research. The research is focused on exploring the experiences of disabled physics graduate students and faculty members using mixed methods. The Barriers and Solutions for Physics Graduate Students and Faculty with Disabilities in Training and Workplace Settings (DISMANTLE) project is composed of three strands: 

1. Development: What are the barriers and solutions experienced by disabled physics graduate students and faculty in informal settings? 
2. Surveying the community: What are the views of physics faculty and members of the broader physics communities about disability in the physics workplace and training setting?
3. Lived experiences of disabled graduate students and faculty: What are the barriers and solutions that affect disabled physics graduate students and faculty in informal settings?

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The postdoctoral research associate’s work will be focused on the second strand (surveying the community). The postdoctoral scholar will have the opportunity to take a lead role in the study design, execution, and dissemination. 

The postdoctoral research associate will (a) participate as a team member of the DISMANTLE team (NSF EES 2348210, EES 2348211, EES 2348212), (b) support dissemination of project activities and results (e.g., conference presentations, journal articles, policy briefs, infographics), (c) coordinate data collection (e.g., scheduling, data entry, coordinate data), (d) conduct advanced statistical modeling and analyses using latent variable modeling, Item Response Theory, and Bayesian approaches under the guidance and supervision of project PIs, and (e) supervise student workers. In addition, this person will also have the capacity to pursue, secure, and manage additional external funding opportunities consistent with this position's focus.

The postdoctoral research associate will work under the direct supervision of Dr. Erin Scanlon (UConn-Avery Point) and will collaborate with a larger research team at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Drs. Allison Lombardi, Graham Rifenbark, Carlyn Mueller) and University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign (Dr. Emily Tarconish). The candidate will be stationed at UConn’s Avery Point campus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Ph.D. in physics, disability studies, education psychology, special education, and/or related disciplines.
2. At least 1 year of experience as a quantitative data analyst or related experience.
3. At least 1 year of experience working on survey research projects.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Expertise with quantitative research and survey methods, disability studies, and/or personal experience with disability.
2. Previous experience with federally funded postsecondary education research focused on disability studies.
3. Previous experience conducting statistical analyses with latent variable modeling, Item Response Theory, and Bayesian methods.
4. Previous experience as a methodologist designing research studies.
5. Previous experience with data storage and management procedures.
6. Demonstrated experience working independently and as a member of a research team that may include teachers and administrators.
7. Familiarity with R, Mplus, and/or other statistical software programs.
8. Familiarity with video editing and/or graphical displays to enhance research presentations and dissemination.
9. Evidence of a record of publications in peer-reviewed journals related to physics education research, disability studies, and quantitative research methods.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

The appointment is for one year, renewable for an additional one year contingent upon satisfactory performance, mutual agreement, and funding.

Other rights and terms and conditions of your appointment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), Local 6950. 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498661 to upload a resume, CV, cover letter explaining their research experience and interests, and three (3) letters of recommendation. For additional information about the position please contact Erin Scanlon (erin.scanlon@uconn.edu). 

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on November 17, 2024. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.