Faculty Researcher Jobs in Technology Education

What is a Faculty Researcher? Definition and Overview

A Faculty Researcher is an academic professional employed by universities or research institutions primarily to conduct original research, often while contributing to teaching and service duties. This position bridges scholarly inquiry and practical application, particularly in specialized fields. Unlike administrative roles, Faculty Researchers focus on advancing knowledge through experiments, data analysis, and publications. For a comprehensive look at the general role, visit the Faculty Researcher jobs page.

In higher education, Faculty Researchers typically hold tenure-track positions, progressing from assistant to full professor based on research output and impact. They secure funding from agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or European Research Council (ERC), managing labs and teams. Historically, the role evolved in the 20th century as universities emphasized research alongside teaching, spurred by post-World War II funding booms.

Technology Education: Definition in the Context of Faculty Research 🔬

Technology Education (Tech Ed) is an academic discipline that teaches students how to design, build, and critically evaluate technologies, fostering skills in problem-solving, innovation, and ethical tech use. For Faculty Researchers in this specialty, it means investigating how technology integrates into education—from K-12 STEM programs to university-level edtech (educational technology).

This field addresses real-world challenges, such as preparing learners for Industry 4.0 with robotics, coding, and 3D printing. Researchers explore pedagogical strategies, like project-based learning in maker spaces, and evaluate tools amid trends like augmented intelligence noted in 2026 technology trends. Countries like Finland and Singapore specialize here, leading in tech-integrated curricula.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Faculty Researcher in Technology Education

Daily duties include designing studies on edtech efficacy, analyzing data from classroom trials, and publishing in journals like the Journal of Technology and Teacher Education. They mentor graduate students on theses involving AI-driven personalized learning and collaborate on grants for virtual reality simulations.

• Conduct empirical research on technology's classroom impact.
• Develop innovative curricula blending tech with core subjects.
• Present at conferences like the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA).
• Evaluate emerging tools, such as cloud computing in education per recent infrastructure shifts.

Required Qualifications, Experience, and Skills 📋

To land Faculty Researcher jobs in Technology Education, candidates need a PhD in Technology Education, Curriculum and Instruction, or a related field like Engineering Education. Research focus should center on edtech integration, digital equity, or STEM pedagogy.

Preferred experience includes 5+ peer-reviewed publications, postdoctoral work, and grants (e.g., $100,000+ from NSF). Skills encompass:

• Advanced statistical analysis and qualitative methods.
• Proficiency in software like Arduino, Tinkercad, or learning management systems.
• Grant writing and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Teaching experience to balance research duties.

Actionable advice: Build a portfolio showcasing prototypes or case studies, and network via research jobs listings.

Career Path and Tips for Success

Begin with a bachelor's in education or technology, advance to a master's in edtech, then PhD with dissertation on tech pedagogy. Post-PhD, pursue 1-3 years as a postdoc, as detailed in postdoctoral success strategies. Aim for assistant Faculty Researcher roles, targeting tenure via high-impact research.

Success tips: Track metrics like h-index (target 10+ early career), diversify funding, and engage in outreach. Stay current with 2026 trends like AI ethics in education to differentiate applications. Tailor your academic CV to highlight quantifiable impacts.

Definitions

Edtech (Educational Technology): Digital tools and platforms enhancing teaching, such as learning apps and adaptive software.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics): Integrated curriculum emphasizing hands-on tech application.

Maker Spaces: Collaborative workshops for prototyping with tools like 3D printers and CNC machines.

Summary and Next Steps

Faculty Researcher jobs in Technology Education offer a dynamic path to shape future innovators. Explore openings on higher-ed jobs, gain insights from higher-ed career advice, browse university jobs, or if hiring, post a job to attract top talent.