Career Center

Since 2019, the Democratic Knowledge Project (DKP) has been developing curricular resources, implementation supports, and professional development offerings for civics teachers in Massachusetts specifically. Our grade 8 curriculum, “Civic Engagement in Our Democracy,” is currently in use in nine districts in Massachusetts, and curricular resources and professional development opportunities provided to educators throughout Massachusetts. We are now conducting a three-year project to deepen our understanding of students' experiences with the curriculum and the perspectives of their families. The larger aim of this research is to support productive, culturally responsive engagement between our school/district partners and families in the diverse communities where our curriculum is being implemented.

We seek a scholar or practitioner with a strong commitment to participatory action research. Specific research activities include recruitment, design and co-facilitation of focus groups with a Youth Advisory group (comprised of students who have experienced the curriculum) as well as surveys and in-depth interviews with parents/caregivers of students. The Faculty Director of the Democratic Knowledge Project, Dr. Danielle Allen, will act as the faculty sponsor. Working closely with the Principal Investigator for this study, Dr. Carrie James, and other DKP directors, the postgraduate researcher will lead components of research design (e.g. co-construct youth advisory board focus group facilitation guide, interview and survey questions), IRB/human subjects application management, recruitment and coordination of consent and assent processes, data collection and analysis, ongoing reporting of results with team members, and preparing reports and presentations for educators, funders, and other external parties. 

We are looking for someone to start as soon as possible. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis  beginning May 2022. The position will run through June 2023, with the possibility of renewal based  on performance and funding. 

How to apply: Email CV and cover letter to Vickie Aldin, valdin@fas.harvard.edu. with the subject line: DKP Equity and Engagement Fellowship.

Minimum qualifications: PhD in a relevant field or MA, MEd, MSW, MPH, or other terminal degree with significant relevant research experience; individuals with many different backgrounds will be considered. 

The successful candidate will have robust research credentials as evidenced by a PhD or terminal degree (Education, Social Work, Public Health or equivalent) with research experience with qualitative data collection (interviews, focus groups), coding, and analysis; survey development, implementation, and quantitative data analysis. 

Commitment to and experience with participatory research methodologies (co-design, participatory action research) is required. 

Strong candidates will be detail oriented, able to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders (e.g., school/district administrators, teachers, 8th/9th grade students, families, researchers). 

Experience with qualitative software (Dedoose) is a plus. 

Experience in K12 or afterschool educational settings is preferred. 

Spanish language fluency is strongly preferred.  

arvard is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for  employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national  origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

If you believe that you qualify for at least 70% of this job description we encourage you to apply. We know  that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can prevent strong candidates from applying to a job  unless they see themselves as a 100% fit. We would love to hear from you.