Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong multidisciplinary background that can work across two labs collaborating on ecological education research. The position is for one year; extensions are contingent on acquisition of new funds.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct research and lead activities in support of funded projects that explore the implementation and assessment of ecological education activities. Of particular interest is research related to how to implement successful distributed experiments in a K12 context.
• Design, implement, and analyze assessments of student learning, affect, and experiences.
• Support teachers and/or community leaders in implementing and evaluating activities in diverse contexts, including co-organizing the Schoolyard Ecology Project and tree phenology study.
• Disseminate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and seminars.
• Pursue extramural funding opportunities.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students across a range of education research subjects.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Doctorate -Biology or Education

• Ph.D. in biology or education
• Evidence of disciplinary knowledge in ecological science and appropriate standards for ecology in a K12 context
• Substantive experience in teacher education or other formal/informal education contexts
• Experience with community-engaged research, especially as it relates to a K12 setting

• At least 5 years experience working with K12 teachers and outdoor education
• Strong track record of implementing successful community-engaged education and research
• Experience designing and implementing student learning experiences and analyzing outcomes, particularly in ecological or outdoor settings.
• Organizing and facilitating workshops or other professional development activities that support teachers or community leaders to implement novel student experiences.

Complete applications must include:

1) a cover letter summarizing qualifications for the position;

2) a curriculum vitae with academic appointments, professional experience, research outputs (funded grants, publications, invited seminars, etc.), teaching experience, and service roles;

3) a research statement describing research accomplishments and future plans for independent research or other leadership roles.

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.

Advertised: Jul 2, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 15, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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