How to Apply
To apply for this position, please upload your resume and cover letter as one document.
Your application packet should include:
- Cover letter addressing your interest and qualifications specific to this role, and
- Resume
Job Summary
The Eileen Lappin Weiser Center for the Learning Sciences invites applications for a Research Area Specialist to join a project exploring the co-design and pedagogical conditions of the LEAPS program. Learning, Equity, and Problem Solving for the Public Good (LEAPS) is a new innovative bachelor's degree program at the University of Michigan's School of Education that seeks to rethink undergraduate education by integrating core academic learning with community-engaged experiences, centered around a first-year residential requirement in Detroit, MI. The LEAPS initiative aims to cultivate an educational environment that fosters deep learning, purpose, belonging, and strong connections between students and community organizations.
At the heart of this project lies a set of core research questions:
- What is learning, and how should it be defined within the context of place-based community engagement?
- Who holds and what counts as knowledge, understanding, and wisdom?
- How should learning be organized and designed to lead to meaningful outcomes for students and communities?
- What impact should learning have on learners and those around them?
The research aims to address these questions through participatory design approaches, examining how community-engaged learning and human flourishing are interwoven. This involves understanding how pedagogical conditions can support students in rethinking traditional education paradigms and in imagining expansive, equitable possibilities for social transformation.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to transformative educational research and practice while engaging deeply with community stakeholders in Detroit. The selected candidate will work closely with a dedicated team of faculty researchers, program staff, community partners, and students to explore innovative pedagogical strategies that can foster sustainable community-university partnerships for the public good.
This is a .5 FTE position, for a 1-year term, with the possibility of renewal.
Responsibilities*
- Conduct a systematic literature review on related topics, contributing to a broader understanding of community-engaged learning in higher education.
- Collaborate with Principal Investigators (PIs) and community partners to develop research frameworks, employing ethnographic and participatory design methodologies.
- Generate and analyze qualitative data from class sessions, interviews, and classroom materials to assess and enhance student learning experiences.
- Contribute to academic presentations, publications, and a white paper to share findings and best practices with both academic and community stakeholders.
- Assist in drafting proposals for additional funding to advance the program's goals of supporting transformative, community-centered educational practices.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the research project and related community-engaged initiatives with the Center for the Learning Sciences.
Required Qualifications*
- A Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Education, Learning Sciences, or related fields.
- Strong background in qualitative research methods, particularly in participatory or ethnographic studies.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary setting.
- A commitment to advancing equity, inclusion, and social justice through education.
- Experience in community-engaged research or educational initiatives in urban contexts.
- Access to transportation between the Marygrove Campus in Detroit and the School of Education in Ann Arbor.
Desired Qualifications*
- Familiarity with co-design methodologies and pedagogical innovation.
- Proven ability in academic writing and conducting systematic literature reviews.
- An understanding of theories related to learning, design, and community engagement.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
This position is an in-person role, with the primary work location at the School at Marygrove Campus in Detroit, Michigan. The position will likely require 2-3 days per week on site in Detroit, with occasional meetings and office space available at the Marsal Family School of Education Building in Ann Arbor, MI.
Additional Information
Salary range: $70,000-$78,000 (NOTE: This is a .5 FTE position, renewable after one year.)
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.