Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term
- Michigan State University
- United States, MI
- Jul 2, 2026
Job Description:
Position Summary
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong multidisciplinary background in biology education research. The successful candidate will contribute to a research team exploring student outcomes in introductory biology, including the impacts of integrating research in large-enrollment, introductory courses. The position is for one year; extensions are contingent on acquisition of new funds.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct research and lead activities in support of a funded project that explores student outcomes in introductory biology.
- Design, implement, and analyze assessments of student learning, affect, and experiences.
- Disseminate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and seminars.
- Pursue extramural funding opportunities.
- Mentor graduate and undergraduate students across a range of education research subjects.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Ability to conduct independent and original research in science education.
- Demonstrable knowledge of trends and theories shaping current biology education research.
- Knowledge and experience using diverse methodological approaches (quantitative and qualitative) and accompanying skills in analytic and statistical methods.
- Excellent and credible communication skills (written, oral) across diverse audiences and contexts.
- Evidence of strong collaborative and teamwork skills.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate
Minimum Requirements
Ph.D. in biology, chemistry, or physics, or, Ph.D. in education with evidence of deep disciplinary knowledge in biology. Demonstrated record of experience and expertise in research on student learning.
Desired Qualifications
- Expertise in theories and methods related to the assessment of mechanistic reasoning, systems thinking, and modeling.
- Strong statistical skills.
- Innovative approaches for visualizing data from mixed methods and qualitative studies.
Required Application Materials
Complete applications must include:
1) a cover letter summarizing qualifications for the position;
2) a curriculum vitae with academic appointments, professional experience, research outputs (funded grants, publications, invited seminars, etc.), teaching experience, and service roles;
3) a research statement describing research accomplishments and future plans for independent research;
4) a teaching statement describing instructional experience, pedagogical approaches to instructional excellence, and future interests; and
5) contact information for 3 references.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
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Job Description:
Position Summary
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong multidisciplinary background in biology education research. The successful candidate will contribute to a research team exploring student outcomes in introductory biology, including the impacts of integrating research in large-enrollment, introductory courses. The position is for one year; extensions are contingent on acquisition of new funds.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct research and lead activities in support of a funded project that explores student outcomes in introductory biology.
- Design, implement, and analyze assessments of student learning, affect, and experiences.
- Disseminate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and seminars.
- Pursue extramural funding opportunities.
- Mentor graduate and undergraduate students across a range of education research subjects.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Ability to conduct independent and original research in science education.
- Demonstrable knowledge of trends and theories shaping current biology education research.
- Knowledge and experience using diverse methodological approaches (quantitative and qualitative) and accompanying skills in analytic and statistical methods.
- Excellent and credible communication skills (written, oral) across diverse audiences and contexts.
- Evidence of strong collaborative and teamwork skills.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate
Minimum Requirements
Ph.D. in biology, chemistry, or physics, or, Ph.D. in education with evidence of deep disciplinary knowledge in biology. Demonstrated record of experience and expertise in research on student learning.
Desired Qualifications
- Expertise in theories and methods related to the assessment of mechanistic reasoning, systems thinking, and modeling.
- Strong statistical skills.
- Innovative approaches for visualizing data from mixed methods and qualitative studies.
Required Application Materials
Complete applications must include:
1) a cover letter summarizing qualifications for the position;
2) a curriculum vitae with academic appointments, professional experience, research outputs (funded grants, publications, invited seminars, etc.), teaching experience, and service roles;
3) a research statement describing research accomplishments and future plans for independent research;
4) a teaching statement describing instructional experience, pedagogical approaches to instructional excellence, and future interests; and
5) contact information for 3 references.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
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