The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work collaboratively with faculty in the School of Education at Iowa State University to support research and programmatic initiatives related to community colleges, higher education policy, and leadership development.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will contribute to research projects examining community college finance, state policy and politics, and institutional governance. The position will also support scholarly and practitioner‑focused dissemination related to community college leadership, policy, and institutional effectiveness. Research responsibilities include conducting literature reviews; assisting with the collection, management, and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data; contributing to scholarly publications, policy briefs, and practitioner‑focused resources; and supporting project coordination and grant‑related activities.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will also support initiatives associated with the Community College Leadership Development Consortium, housed at Iowa State University, which provides professional development and leadership programming for current and aspiring community college leaders across Iowa. Responsibilities include assisting the Consortium leadership team with the planning, coordination, and evaluation of programs and events; coordinating logistics such as travel, event arrangements, and materials for programs and summer academies; supporting administrative and financial coordination including expense tracking, payment processing, and budget reconciliation; and assisting with communications and outreach activities such as maintaining website and social media content, contributing to the quarterly newsletter, supporting alumni communications, and helping prepare research briefs and program materials.
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong written, oral, and electronic communication skills; the ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team; and effective organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Higher Education, Community College Leadership, Education Policy, Public Policy, Sociology, or a closely related field by the start date
Demonstrated research experience using qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods approaches.
The School of Education at Iowa State University empowers educators, leaders, and researchers to serve all communities by applying evidence-based practice. Through research, graduate education, and partnerships with practitioners, the School addresses key educational challenges and advances its commitment to educational opportunity and success in Iowa, the nation, and the world. The School is also home to a nationally recognized Community College Leadership program that prepares current and aspiring leaders to strengthen community colleges and advance student success.
The School also houses the Community College Leadership Development Consortium. Established in 1989 through a partnership among Iowa State University, the Iowa Association of Community College Presidents (IACCP), and the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees (IACCT), the Consortium provides academic and experiential professional development to support advancement in community college leadership roles. The Consortium is led by faculty in Iowa State University’s Community College Leadership program and works closely with community college leaders across the state to support leadership development and professional learning.
College of Health and Human Sciences – College of Health and Human Sciences
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
The position will remain open until filled. For fullest consideration, applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on April 13.
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Postdocs enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing Program