美国宾夕法尼亚州立大学博士后职位招聘–传播研究、社会和政治科学方向

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center at The Pennsylvania State University (PSU) invites applications for a postdoctoral appointment that will support research activities of the Research Translation Platform (RTP). The RTP is the scientific home for the study of translating scientific evidence for decision-makers across government, industry, and practice.

This includes understanding the use of evidence in policymaking to prevent, reduce, and ameliorate social ills and promote societal well-being. ​ Focusing on the science of science, dissemination, and engagement, ​RTP is particularly interested in methods for improving the use of research evidence in legislative activities, rapid-cycle experimentation of scientific messages, and creating effective strategies to bridge the research and policy communities. ​

Focusing on the science of science, dissemination, and engagement, ​RTP is particularly interested in methods for improving the use of research evidence in legislative activities, rapid-cycle experimentation of scientific messages, and creating effective strategies to bridge the research and policy communities. ​

The appointee will have the opportunity to contribute to the RTP’s research aims by leading foundational research on strengthening the role of research institutions in translating science to legislative audiences. They will have the opportunity to contribute to the RTP’s vibrant portfolio through supporting data collection, analyses, and dissemination of findings across research activities. Specifically, the selected scholar will collect and analyze in-depth qualitative data from decision-makers in research institutions regarding barriers and facilitators of creating research infrastructure for policy impact.

Successful candidates for the program will be selected on the basis of their research experience; those with independent investigative experience (e.g., designing and conducting qualitative research methods) and breadth or depth of knowledge and experience related to using evidence in public policy will be given preference. A core part of the position involves the leadership of a qualitative study; as such, experience designing qualitative protocols, collecting data, and rigorous analysis will be solid. In addition, substantial familiarity with research and/or literature about how policymakers use research evidence, and experience with research related to researchers’ policy engagement experiences is important. The postdoc will have two research mentors who support the postdoc’s professional growth in evaluation and qualitative research methodology skills.

PSU will appoint a recent recipient of a Ph.D. degree as a fully-remote Postdoctoral Researcher for a one-to-two-year term appointment beginning approximately August 2024. The Postdoc will receive a competitive stipend, health benefits, and support for travel, preparation of scholarly work, and technology needs. The postdoc will also be provided access to university resources, including the library.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants will have completed all requirements for the Ph.D. at the time of appointment; applicants may have their degrees from any department, but candidates who have an educational background in the area of education leadership and policy or related areas, such as communication studies, social and political sciences, will be particularly good fits for the program. Applicants must have the ability to work independently and as a team; therefore, good communication skills as well as qualitative research skills (e.g., transcribing and analyzing interview and observation data) are required.

Application Instructions

Full consideration will be given to those applicants who completely submit all materials online. A complete submission will consist of:

• Cover Letter describing research interests, qualifications, and relevant experience (1-3 Pages)
• Curriculum Vitae
• Three Letters of Reference
• Writing Sample (preferably samples of qualitative work; 1-2 samples, 35-page cumulative max)

Review and Selection

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Penn State is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The position will start in approximately August 2024.

General questions regarding the program may be addressed to:

Taylor Scott, Research Assistant Professor

Jxs1622@psu.edu

Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center

College of Health and Human Development

314 Biobehavioral Health Building

University Park, PA 16802

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: 

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.