The School of Information Science & Learning Technologies, in collaboration with the Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science at the University of Missouri-Columbia, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position. The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary project titled: "Social Virtual Reality enabled Learning to Empower Special Education Students in Gaining Competence to Join the Future Technology Workforce''. This project is funded by the National Science Foundation's Research on Emerging Technologies for Teaching and Learning (NSF RETTL) program.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing our scientific research and software/testbed development efforts for the project, which aims to improve STEM education and workforce development for transition-aged adults with cognitive conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Key responsibilities include:

•      Collaboratively developing an accessible and inclusive STEM curriculum focused on computational thinking, using cybersecurity scenarios.
•        Leveraging virtual reality, intelligent pedagogical agents, and learning technologies to create an immersive, game-like learning environment.
•      Contributing to the research, development, and deployment of intelligent pedagogical agent techniques to enable self-paced learning.
•      Assisting in technical report writing and serving as a mentor to student team members.

Applicants must have a PhD in one of the following fields by the time of appointment: Instructional Technology, Computer Science, Instructional Design, Educational Technology, Computer Engineering, or related fields.

Candidates Will Be Evaluated On:

• Research and analytical skills (Experience in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods is a plus)
• A track record of academic publication
• Experience in 3D tools such as Unity
• Programming and other technical skills
• Strong collaboration skills.

Interested candidates should apply online, upload your CV, and the contact information for two  professional references. Candidates should also provide a cover letter speaking towards their qualifications for this position; especially in regards to conducting design research and their ability to be involved in the technical development of an AI-enabled VR system.

This position is eligible for University benefits.  The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts.  For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Values Commitment
 
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement.  This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America. For more information, call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-7976.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

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To read more about Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) please use the following links:

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Columbia, Mo., is known as an ideal college town, combining small-town comforts, community spirit and low cost of living with big-city culture, activities and resources.  Home to nationally renowned public schools and other colleges and educational centers, Columbia is packed with restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen annual cultural festivals.