The University of Southern California’s Pullias Center for Higher Education is seeking a
postdoctoral scholar to work on a mixed methods evaluation study that examines the Thompson
Scholars Learning Community (TSLC) Programs at three University of Nebraska campuses. The
postdoctoral scholar will collaborate with faculty, and graduate students. We are particularly
interested in applications from candidates with experience in using rigorous quasi-experimental and experimental methods to study or evaluate educational interventions. Experience with mixed
methods research and qualitative methods is desired, as well as an understanding of learning
communities, and success and transition factors for first generation and low-income students.
Project activities will involve data analysis, regularly attending planning and project meetings, and
writing up results for research. The randomized control trial of the research design of the evaluation seeks to test whether the program was effective in helping students develop critical psychosocial factors associated with college persistence and attainment. The mixed-methods research design seeks to provide a thorough understanding of the context of the program, and identify potential mechanisms through which the program is being effective. The design includes a longitudinal survey, case studies, digital diaries, social media analysis, and focus groups.
Ideal candidates will:
- Have experience conducting rigorous, high quality and meaningful research;
- Advanced quantitative skills (e.g., propensity score matching, regression discontinuity
design, randomized control trials, etc.);
- Work with a complex team across multiple sites and states;
- Publish academic articles related to the project; and
- Translate research findings into materials useful for practitioner audiences
- Social science background preferred (e.g., education, sociology, psychology, public
policy, and economics)
The mission of the Pullias Center for Higher Education is to support the access and success of first generation and low-income students. The Center is located within the Rossier School of Education at USC. Since 1996 the Center has engaged in action-oriented research projects regarding successful college outreach programs, financial aid and access for low- to moderate-income students of color, use of technology to supplement college counseling services, effective postsecondary governance, emerging organizational forms such as for-profit institutions, and the retention of doctoral students of color. We seek individuals who are not only interested in conducting rigorous research but also intent on having their research translated in a way that enables multiple constituencies (e.g. policy-makers, administrators and teachers, parents and students) to make use of research findings.
The postdoctoral position can begin fall 2018 or winter 2019. It is a temporary, fixed-term, one-year position, renewable up to two and a half years. The candidate should have a PhD by the time of employment. The candidate will also have active mentoring opportunities from the School and the University through workshops and conferences.
Applicants should include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, one sample publication, and contact information for three references. Please send materials to Monica Raad (email: raad@usc.edu).
We will begin reviewing applications as soon as possible.
Please address the following questions when submitting your letter of interest:
1. What is your research agenda?
2. How does your research tie into the mission of the TSLC Project?
3. Describe in detail your methodological training and experience
4. How will your expertise enhance the project team’s expertise?
5. How will this position further your research and career goals?
Please visit the sites below to learn more about the project:
Thompson Scholars Learning Community: https://buffettscholarships.org/learning-community
Pullias Center and TSLC Study: https://pullias.usc.edu/tslc/
The University of Southern California strongly values diversity and is committed to equal
opportunity in employment. Women and men, and members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Salary and benefits are competitive. For additional information about a specific position please go to: https://policy.usc.edu/equalopportunities/
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