Racial Justice in STEM Entrepreneurship Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Postdoctoral Research Fellow — Racial Revolutionary and Inclusive Guidance for Health Throughout STEM (R-RIGHTS). R-RIGHTS is seeking a highly qualified postdoctoral scholar specializing in Social Science, Education Research, Data Science or related disciplines to join our research team. In this dynamic role, the successful candidate will collaborate closely with scholars from Johns Hopkins University, Tennessee State University, Hampton University, Vanderbilt University, and more. This is a full-time position.

Subject Areas: Social Sciences, Education Research, Data Science/Computer Science, Computer Science, Education, Identity and Computing, Interdisciplinary Work related to Social or Biological Sciences, Social Sciences.

At Racial Revolutionary and Inclusive Guidance for Health Throughout STEM (R-RIGHTS), https://r-rights.com, our mission is to dismantle systemic racism and other barriers and promote equitable representation in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through innovative strategies, collaborative partnerships, and unwavering dedication, we strive to empower underrepresented racial and ethnic communities, fostering a diverse and inclusive ecosystem that accelerates advancements in educational and workplace mental and physical health to transform the future of STEM.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

• Statistical Analysis: Utilize advanced statistical techniques, including descriptive and inferential statistics, regression modeling, mediation/moderation models, and structural equation modeling, to analyze complex datasets.
• Data Management: Take a lead role in cleaning and preprocessing data, ensuring data quality and integrity throughout the research process.
• Software Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in programming languages such as R, Python, or SPSS to clean data and conduct data analysis efficiently.
• Publication Contribution: Contribute significantly to the development of research articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings.
• Project Ownership: Take ownership of research projects, working independently and collaboratively with a diverse team of experts.
• Identity Development: Play a key role in the development of research initiatives related to STEM identity, computing, and health, with the goal of fostering an inclusive and interdisciplinary approach to the field.

Candidates are expected to work on all facets of projects (including instrument development, data collection and manuscript writing, and publishing/presenting findings), as well as mentor student researchers. This position is for two (2) years, with a possible 3rd year upon successful completion of our shared goals.

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of equity issues and solutions in the field of STEM education.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Skill in managing, processing, and analyzing large datasets.
• Knowledge of the academic publishing process.

Level of Independent Decision-Making:

• Ability to independently lead and deliver on research projects.
• Capable of formulating and implementing research methodologies and procedures.
• Ability to make independent decisions regarding data quality, analysis, and interpretation.
• Capable of independently managing timelines and deliverables.

Technical Qualifications or Specialized Certifications:

• Advanced proficiency in statistical analysis software tools like R, Python, SPSS.
• Certification in Data Science or relevant area.
• Training in education research methods or similar.
• Proficiency in scholarly writing and editing.
• Knowledge of data management and research ethics.

Minimum qualifications (mandatory):

• Ph.D. with a completion date no later than January 2024 in Social Science, Education Research, Data Science Education, CS/Engineering/STEM Education, and other related disciplines.
• Experience performing quantitative, qualitative, and/or mixed-methods research.
• Prior experience in conducting education research or working on projects in STEM education.
• Alignment with the goals of R-RIGHTS.
• Proficiency in oral and written communication.
• Evidence of research experience in the aforementioned areas, as demonstrated by publications, works in progress, and/or presentations.
• Current eligibility to work in the U.S.
• Relocation to Baltimore/DMV area is required. Travel 4-5 times per year anticipated.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with large-scale data.
• Proficiency in advanced statistical analysis techniques such as Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing
• Advanced training/certification in data analysis software such as R, Python, or SPSS.
• Publications in high-quality academic journals.
• Experience managing research projects, including budgeting, timeline development, and team coordination.
• Experience in mentoring or advising students.

Applicants must submit the following documents as attachments:

• CV
• Cover letter: including a brief statement identifying prior research projects and current interests, plus how the applicant’s prior and potential contributions to creating equitable and inclusive environments will advance the R-RIGHTS’s mission.
• Unofficial university transcript.
• Professional writing sample.
• Contact information for three (3) people who can speak to the applicant’s professional experience and potential as a postdoctoral researcher.

Application Process