Assistant Director of Research and Tech Development

Job Description

The AmplifyLearn.AI Center at the University of Washington has an outstanding opportunity for an experienced and qualified Assistant Director of Research and Technology Development to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to Director, Dr. Min Sun, the Assistant Director will be responsible for overseeing and coordinating the Center's two intertwined strands of work: Research and Technology Development. Among other responsibilities, the key responsibilities of this position will lead a team to study effective design features of edtech products, study AI adoptions in educational settings, supervise graduate research assistants, and collaborate with practitioners to enhance K-12 learning experiences. This position will also work closely with an EdTech startup team, Colleague AI, to develop product features and conduct research to assess its effects on teacher efficiency and student learning outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Research Studies: 50%

• Lead the design, testing, and refinement of effective studies of AI implementation in schools

• Develop validation systems of AI models development in education

• Meet the specific needs of K-12 educational settings

• Coordinate with the Director and core faculty on project priorities and research agenda

• Identify funding opportunities and assist in grant writing

• Assist with grant proposal writing and reporting
   

Project Management: 30%

• Oversee and coordinate research projects in AI for education

• Manage the Center’s SEED grant programs to junior scholars

• Coordinate the Center’s other programs in collaboration with federal funders

• Manage research budgets and timelines
   

Team Management: 10%

• Manage and mentor a team of graduate students and data scientists

• Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment
   

Stakeholder Engagement: 10%

• Engage with relevant stakeholders, including but not limited to, K-12 educational institutions, EdTech partners, policymakers, and funders

• Represent the Center at conferences, workshops, and public engagements

• Contribute to the Center's public engagement initiatives, including dissemination of research findings

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field and four years of relevant experience leading research projects and Edtech product development.

• Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

Additional Qualifications

• Sophisticated use of AI in educational research

• Strong understanding of causal inference and quantitative research methods

• Passionate about using research and technology to improve K-12 teaching and learning

• Proven track record in managing teams of graduate students and data scientists in AI/ML projects

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary, past-pacing environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Education, Computer Science, Data Sciences, or a related field

• Experience in securing research grants and managing funded projects, especially federal grants

• Publication record in relevant academic journals or conferences

• Demonstrated experience in U.S. K-12 education systems as a teacher, administrator, for policymaker

Application Requirements

• A statement of interest. This statement should introduce the applicant and explain their interest in the position. It should highlight the applicant's relevant skills, qualifications, and experience, as well as explain how they can lead the research initiatives of AI in education. 

• Curriculum vitae. This document provides an overview of the applicant’s education work experience, publications, research projects, and other relevant qualifications. 

• Examples of prior work that demonstrates qualifications of the job description, which includes scholarly publications, Github Repos, or website built.

About the Team
The AmplifyLearn.AI Center at the University of Washington is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) into education. Our mission is to develop innovative AI methods, study AI adoptions in educational settings, and create technology solutions that enhance K-12 learning experiences. The Center focuses on four key areas: Research, Technology Development, Training, and Public Engagement. The Center's work is generously funded by the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) under the U.S. Department of Education, the National Science Foundation (NSF), and among others, enabling us to pursue cutting-edge research and development in AI for education.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

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About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.