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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS: The Engineering Cognitive Research Laboratory (ECRL) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to join our team and conduct research on addressing engineering graduate student attrition. This position will be funded through an ASEE eFellows postdoctoral research grant. Responsibilities:

Carry out the proposed research project on characterizing the impact of stressors and institutional support systems on graduate student well-being and persistence.

Collaborate with Dr. Berdanier and other laboratory members to design and implement surveys and interviews, analyze data, and disseminate findings through publications and presentations.

Attend and present research findings at national conferences (at least one annually).

Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with the Dr. Berdanier to discuss research progress, challenges, and career development.

Participate in the ECRL research group meetings and seminars to engage in scholarly discussions and receive feedback.

Provide mentorship and guidance to graduate and undergraduate students involved in the research project.

Develop expertise in grant writing, teaching, and other academic service activities. Qualifications:

Ph.D.in mechanical engineering by the appointment start date.

Demonstrated experience with engineering education research, with a focus on graduate student well-being and persistence.

Demonstrated experience with quantitative and qualitative research skills, including survey design, data analysis, and statistical methods.

Extensive experience with or understanding of institutional policies, graduate student support systems, and institution-level processes for conflict resolution.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences.

Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the academic community.

Experience in mentoring and supporting graduate and undergraduate students.

Additional Information: This is a term appointment, funded for one year from date of hire, with an excellent possibility of renewal.

The position is based at Penn State's University Park Campus; however, flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid work opportunities, may be considered.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

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Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the r porting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.