Postdoctoral Scholar - Research & Outreach

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

3d

About The Position

The School of Education at Iowa State University invites applications for a one-year Research & Outreach Postdoctoral Scholar. The scholar will contribute to ongoing research on shifting dynamics of student support labor (50%) and outreach for projects in the School of Education (50%). This role blends qualitative research, applied scholarship, and program coordination. The successful candidate will have a strong interest in the scholarship of practice, experience in the higher education and student affairs context, ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, ability to self-direct and manage complex tasks, and solid organizational and time management skills. Key Responsibilities & Support Research & Scholarly Inquiry: support and advance ethnographic research examining student support roles, organizational culture, and the evolving landscape of higher education Support and advance ethnographic research examining student support roles, organizational culture, and the evolving landscape of higher education. Assist with qualitative research design, data collection, and analysis. Conduct interviews, field observations, and document review. Manage research logistics, including recruitment, scheduling, and IRB compliance. Prepare and code qualitative data using research software (e.g., Dedoose) Contribute to research reports, manuscripts, conference proposals, and grant materials. Program Coordination & Outreach: Support the School of Education initiatives that strengthen partnerships, visibility, and engagement. Outreach and workshops to K-12 schools. Outreach to external stakeholders to promote the visibility of SOE faculty and staff Develop communications such as weekly research and practice updates. Mentorship, Collaboration, & Professional Development: The School of Education is committed to providing mentorship and professional development opportunities for all employees. In this role, the Postdoctoral Scholar can anticipate: Close collaboration with faculty and graduate students on all phases of the research process. Opportunities to participate in School of Education research groups, seminars, and professional development opportunities. Depending on interest, opportunities for guest lecturing or co-teaching may be available (not to exceed 10% of time). Co-development of a tailored professional growth plan aligned with career goals in academia, student affairs, or administration.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Ed.D. in higher education, educational leadership, or a closely related field
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in higher education student affairs and/or administration
• Some experience with qualitative methods (interviewing, observing, coding
• Demonstrated skill with organization and program/project management and oversight

Responsibilities

• Support and advance ethnographic research examining student support roles, organizational culture, and the evolving landscape of higher education
• Assist with qualitative research design, data collection, and analysis
• Conduct interviews, field observations, and document review
• Manage research logistics, including recruitment, scheduling, and IRB compliance
• Prepare and code qualitative data using research software (e.g., Dedoose)
• Contribute to research reports, manuscripts, conference proposals, and grant materials
• Support the School of Education initiatives that strengthen partnerships, visibility, and engagement
• Outreach and workshops to K-12 schools
• Outreach to external stakeholders to promote the visibility of SOE faculty and staff
• Develop communications such as weekly research and practice updates
• Close collaboration with faculty and graduate students on all phases of the research process
• Opportunities to participate in School of Education research groups, seminars, and professional development opportunities
• Depending on interest, opportunities for guest lecturing or co-teaching may be available (not to exceed 10% of time)
• Co-development of a tailored professional growth plan aligned with career goals in academia, student affairs, or administration.

Benefits

• Iowa State Postdocs enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees