Postdoctoral Fellow

Posting Number: SP005170P

Division/College: College of Agricultural & Life Sciences

Department: Family & Consumer Sciences

Location: Moscow

Posting Context Statement:

The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with Dr. Shiyi Chen (PI) on NSF-funded research examining young children’s developing metacognition and early science learning. The three ongoing studies draw on observation, survey, and experimental methods to explore how 3- to 5-year-old children make sense of their own thinking and how teachers can meaningfully nurture this process through language-rich interactions and hands-on science activities. The postdoc will contribute to ongoing projects, lead independent research aligned with the grant’s goals, and collaborate with the research team.

Position Overview:

The responsibilities include conducting quantitative and/or mixed-methods research and leading data collection, management, and analysis for ongoing studies. The role also involves preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and presenting findings at national conferences. In addition, the individual is responsible for mentoring graduate and undergraduate research assistants and collaborating with school, community, and interdisciplinary partners.

Required Experience:

• Research background in child development, learning sciences, or related fields
• Interest in early science education, teacher professional development, self-regulated learning, and metacognition.
• Demonstrated record of scholarly productivity, including publications or works in progress.
• Demonstrated experience in quantitative and/or mixed methods research.

Required Education:

• Ph.D. in Child Development, Educational Psychology, Human Development, Learning Sciences, or a related field (degree must be completed by start date).

Required Other: None

Additional Preferred:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience coding and analyzing video data.
• Experience coding and analyzing language data.
• Experience conducting classroom observations in preschool or kindergarten settings.
• Expertise in advanced statistical techniques (e.g., multilevel modeling, SEM) or qualitative analysis (e.g., grounded theory, thematic analysis).
• Experience with grant writing or collaborative team science.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions: None

Degree Requirement: Listed degree qualification is required at time of hire

FLSA Status: Exempt

Employee Category: Exempt

Pay Range: $50,000 annually or higher depending on experience

Type of Appointment: _of_Appointment

FTE: 1

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Funding: This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.

A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy: Uncertain

Posting Date: 02/10/2026

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants: Review of applications will begin on February 24, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Applicants should submit:

1. A cover letter describing research experience, interests, and career goals.
2. Curriculum vitae.
3. One representative publication or writing sample. (upload under Other Document 1)
4. Names and contact information for three references.

If you would like to receive a full position description, please email emilyd@uidaho.edu

Background Check Statement: Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.

To apply, visit https://uidaho.peopleadmin.com/postings/50818