NSF Division Of Research On Learning In Formal And Informal Settings (DRL) Seeks Program Directors

The Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DRL) at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is conducing a nationwide search for temporary Program Directors. Appointments may be made for up to two years, with possible extension for an additional year by mutual agreement. Formal consideration of applications will begin at two times each year: March 1st and October 1st. DRL invests in projects to improve the effectiveness of STEM learning for people of all ages. Its mission includes promoting innovative research, development, and evaluation of learning and teaching across all science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines by advancing cutting-edge knowledge and practices in both formal and informal learning settings. DRL also promotes the broadening and deepening of capacity and impact in the educational sciences by encouraging the participation of scientists, engineers, and educators from the range of disciplines represented at NSF. Therefore, DRL's role in the larger context of Federal support for education research and evaluation is to be a catalyst for change - advancing theory, method, measurement, development, and application in STEM education. NSF Program Directors bear the primary responsibility for carrying out the Agency's overall mission - to support innovative and merit-reviewed projects in the basic research and education that contribute to the nation's technical strength, security, and welfare. To discharge this responsibility requires not only knowledge in the appropriate STEM and education fields, but also a commitment to high standards, a considerable breadth of interest in and receptivity to new ideas, a strong sense of fairness, good judgment, and a high degree of personal integrity. Successful candidates will be expected to work with other staff in the division in managing some of the following funding programs: Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL), Discovery Research K-12 (DR K-12), Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST), Math and Science Partnership (MSP)/STEM-C Partnerships, Promoting Research and Innovation in Methodologies for Evaluation (PRIME), and Research on Education and Learning (REAL), in addition to cross-directorate programs such as Advanced Technological Education (ATE), EHR Core Research (ECR), and Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER). They will also be expected to work closely with staff across clusters, divisions, directorates, and agencies on cross-cutting programs of importance to the mission of NSF. Applicants should have a Ph.D. or its equivalent and six or more years of experience in at least one of the following areas: Research in a field relevant to the position, such as education or learning research in any STEM field, evaluation, statistics or measurement, or any of the behavioral, cognitive, or social sciences bases of STEM learning. Ideal candidates bring strong methodological or measurement expertise. Formal education focused on improving STEM learning through the design, development, and study of innovative learning materials, instructional methods, learning assessment, teacher preparation and professional development programs, or STEM education technologies. STEM education outside of formal school environments or in informal education research, evaluation, or practice requiring extensive knowledge of settings such as museum exhibits, large format film/radio/TV production, cyberlearning, or community youth/family programming. Applicants should email a current CV and statement of interest to drlrecruit@nsf.gov.