The Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning (CASTL) is seeking applications for a qualified postdoctoral research associate to work under the mentorship of Dr. Julie Cohen on several grant-funded research projects focused on teacher professional learning in literacy.

The postdoctoral research associate will be involved in designing online materials for teachers, collecting qualitative and quantitative data, and analyzing those data. The postdoctoral research associate will also have opportunities to publish emerging findings from these research studies. In addition, within this role, the Associate will receive (a) mentored professional development on manuscript preparation and grant development; (b) immersion in large-scale research; (c) research training; and (d) tailored professional development geared towards the Associate’s career aspirations (e.g., teaching, university leadership experience). University teaching opportunities may be available, if desired.

Founded in 2006, the Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning (CASTL) is an interdisciplinary research center that aims to advance the quality of teaching and learning, from infancy to higher education. Our research initiatives span the globe and our faculty are leading the way to promote meaningful changes in education. We believe effective teaching and learning are the foundation for opportunity, success and well-being. Our mission is to advance the quality and impact of teaching through scientific study in educational settings from infancy to higher education.

Responsibilities

Partnership building and data collection

Developing online resources to support teacher development

Coordinating with research partners to ensure consistent data collection

Data analysis

Coding interviews and other qualitative data sources

Organization of qualitative data, including writing analytic memos

Facilitating links between qualitative data and quantitative data, in coordination with quantitative research team

Gathering information to track research progress

Communications and manuscript development

Generating reports for funders and research partners

Developing manuscripts

Interfacing with other research team members and study participants

Conducting and writing literatures

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Doctoral degree

Preferred Qualification

Education: PhD in literacy education, reading, teacher education, learning sciences, or instructional technology, and/or a Masters degree in teaching and/or a reading specialist degree and/or masters degree in reading education

Experience:

3-5 years teaching PK-5 reading/literacy

Designing professional development experiences and/or coaching for teachers

Collecting quantitative and qualitative data

Conducting mixed-methods research and/or coordinating qualitative and quantitative research findings

Designing research studies focused on high-quality instructional materials in literacy

Licensure/Certifications: Elementary teaching license/certificate

Physical Demands: This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

Salary Range: The anticipated hiring range is $60,000–$65,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Exemption Status: This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.

Funding Details : This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.

Work Arrangement: This position can be in person or fully remote and may be performed outside of Charlottesville, VA, in alignment with UVA’s remote work guidelines.

About UVA and the Community: To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application Timeline: Application review will begin after March 1, 2026

Background Check: Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

Visa Sponsorship: This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.

How to Apply: Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0080362. Complete an application with the following documents:  

Resume

Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF.   Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.

Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website. 

Reference Check Process: Reference checks will be completed by UVA’s third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required. 

Department Contact: For questions about the position, please contact Julie Cohen.

Recruiter Contact: For questions about the application process, please contact Margaret Weeks.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.