Postdoc in Software Development & STEM Education Research
Oregon State University is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to work with a transdisciplinary team focused on enacting and researching innovative computer-based collaborative learning environments towards improved postsecondary STEM education. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt with a priority submission deadline of December 15, 2014. To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to Professor Milo Koretsky, [email protected] and Project Manager Julie Risien, [email protected].
Full Announcement (can also be found at http://stem.science.oregonstate.edu/postdoc_software_development_stem_ed):
Oregon State University, a national leader in postsecondary STEM education, is seeking a candidate to fill a 2- to 3-year position at the level of Postdoctoral Scholar. Funded by NSF grants from the WIDER and TUES programs, the position affords working with a transdisciplinary team focused on enacting and researching computer-based collaborative learning environments towards improved postsecondary STEM education. Our team consists of STEM educators and researchers, spanning the Colleges of Engineering, Science, and Education.
OSU is a national leader in postsecondary STEM education with a strong practice of transdisciplinary work through the Center for Research on Lifelong STEM Learning, the Center for Teaching and Learning, with significant capacity and expertise in discipline-based educational research. The OSU campus sits on 500 acres in Corvallis, Oregon, a vibrant university town of 53,000 in the heart of western Oregon’s Willamette Valley, located about 90 miles south of Portland and one hour from the Pacific Coast and the Cascade Mountains. Corvallis is consistently ranked among the best and safest cities to live in the U.S. as well as among the top ten environmentally responsible and recreational cities in the country. Corvallis also has the highest Peace Corps volunteers, the most green buildings and highest education level per capita in the country. OSU and the Corvallis region are known for the quality of their outdoor programs and opportunities, enabling a range of research, sports, and recreational activities in the Cascade Mountains, the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, and the Pacific Ocean.
Responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Scholar generally include helping develop and maintain innovative technology-based software architectures and studying their efficacy. Requirements include knowledge of database design (MySQL) and web-application programming (PHP, HTML, JavaScript), including the fielding, review and addressing of day-to-day application issues. Research interests may also include software development for learning management systems (LMS) or massive online open courses (MOOCs). Preferably, applicants will have completed a doctoral degree in computer science, engineering, computational physics, information systems, or mathematics, or a related field by May 2015. Applicants should have a strong record of interest in and commitment to undergraduate STEM education. In addition, applicants should have an interest in working with a group of transdisciplinary STEM educators and researchers. Excellent communication and organizational skills are required.
Postdoctoral Scholars will experience strong mentoring and professional development towards securing future academic positions, including networking with the Center for Research on Lifeline STEM Learning and the post-secondary education focused ESTEME group. Approximately 85% of the Postdoctoral experience will be dedicated to research and research relevant activities. At least 15% will be dedicated to the scholars own choice of professional development.
Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. A benefits package is included. To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to Professor Milo Koretsky,[email protected] by December 15, 2014.
