Senior Research Scientist and Associate Director for Research

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute ( FPG) is one of the nation's oldest and largest multidisciplinary centers devoted to the study of children and their families. As one of the nation's leading child development research centers, we generate scientific evidence, inform policies, and support practices to promote positive developmental and educational outcomes for children of all backgrounds and abilities from infancy to adolescence.

FPG has a particular focus on the study of vulnerable populations and those who have special needs. In addition, FPG is committed to creating a place where everyone is welcome, supported, and has the resources they need to grow and thrive regardless of identity, origin, or difference in circumstances as well as engaging in work that addresses critical issues related to educational inequality and barriers to inclusion that impact children's wellbeing.

Approximately 280 researchers, implementation and technical assistance specialists, staff, and students work on more than 75 projects related to developmental disabilities; physical, social, and emotional health; early care and education; early intervention and special education, prevention science, and more to address important issues facing all children and families. Our work spans across disciplines from education and psychology to social work and public health.

We collaborate with researchers across campus and throughout the nation. At FPG, transdisciplinary collaboration is a way to leverage collective expertise for comprehensive and relevant research and outreach, and is embodied in our motto: Advancing knowledge to transform children's lives.

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

Senior Research Scientist is the title for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary professional contributions and consistent high-quality research evaluation in an area that involves young children and their families, as well as excellence in professional or public service. The Senior Research Scientist must demonstrate significant leadership by obtaining external funding, administering projects, publishing his or her work in high quality peer-reviewed journals, or developing materials or intervention models that are used widely. A Senior Research Scientist has exhibited evidence of high-quality technical expertise in his or her field of work and is noted for the creativity and originality of his or her contributions. The Senior Research Scientist has achieved national or international recognition for his or her work and is called upon for advice and consultation by state and federal agencies as well as professional organizations. A Senior Research Scientist has a formal relationship with a UNC-CH academic department in an adjunct, research, or clinical faculty role. A Senior Research Scientist is expected to meet the education and experience qualifications described below, to have achieved sustained excellence in research evaluation in an area that fits with the mission of FPG, and to show a high level of competence and contribution in public and professional service.

The successful candidate for the Senior Research Scientist position will also have the opportunity to serve as the Associate Director for Research via a secondary appointment. While serving as the Associate Director for Research, the appointee will receive a $25,000 annual supplement. The appointee will also receive 40% departmental funding of their primary Senior Research Scientist position, while serving in the role as Associate Director for Research. The Associate Director for Research appointment, supplement, and funding are contingent on the successful performance in the role and may be discontinued at the discretion of the Director of the FPG Child Development Institute.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.

Experience related to children, adolescents, or young adults with developmental disabilities and their families; lower resourced communities, including rural communities; school readiness; quality of care; child mental health; impact of technology on families and children, including artificial intelligence; OR education or health policies, programs, or practices that impact children.
Demonstrated experience in written communication, public speaking and presentation, knowledge of research, qualitative or quantitative evaluation methodologies.

Prefer a Ph.D. in Psychology, Education, Social Work, Public Health or Policy, or related discipline.

Preference will be given to candidates with:
* success in obtaining federal funding to support major initiatives or research.
* previous program leadership and management experience.
* established track record of collaborating and connecting with internal and external partners.
* experience in real-world and applied research, or clear translational potential to real-word settings.

Preference will be given to candidates with existing funding.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.