Job Description

The Early Childhood Education Institute (ECEI) at the University of Oklahoma Tulsa is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with expertise in early childhood education to contribute to its applied research mission. The earliest start date for this position is August 15, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

Situated on the campus of The University of Oklahoma at Tulsa, the ECEI is an applied research center focused on understanding and advancing access and opportunity for young children and families. Our team of researchers engages in research-practice partnerships, bringing expertise in early care and education and the early childhood workforce. We apply cutting-edge approaches, leveraging longitudinal data to examine practices and policies that lead to thriving children, families, and communities. We partner with community agencies and researchers to infuse multiple and interdisciplinary perspectives.

The ECEI postdoc will ideally bring a strong focus on independent and collaborative research within an interdisciplinary team. It is ideal for an early career scholar seeking to deepen methodological expertise, expand a publication portfolio, and contribute to externally funded research initiatives.

This position is designed for a motivated scholar with a background in early childhood, child development, or a related field who is committed to advancing applied research. The Fellow will contribute to a portfolio of projects focused on early childhood care and education, with an emphasis on producing peer-reviewed publications, conducting advanced analyses, supporting ongoing research activities, and developing an independent research agenda.

Representative Duties

• Analyze existing data (ECEI and national), collaborating on peer-reviewed manuscripts
• Provide methodological and/or statistical support to ECEI projects
• Contribute to proposal development and support efforts to secure external funding
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams and community partners
• Present research findings at national conferences and professional meetings
• Contribute to dissemination products, including reports, briefs, and policy relevant materials
• Mentor junior research staff and graduate assistants
• Engage in curriculum development and graduate student advising (as appropriate)
• Contribute to professional development and dissemination efforts within ECEI

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or related field (completed by start date)
• Expertise in early childhood care and education systems (e.g. Early Head Start)
• Minimum of two years of experience conducting early childhood research
• Demonstrated methodological and related software skills, including quantitative analyses (e.g. SPSS, SAS, or MPlus) and/or qualitative analyses (e.g. NVivo, DeDoose)
• Evidence of, or strong potential for peer-reviewed publications
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly for research dissemination

Preferred Qualifications

• Research expertise in infant-toddler care and education
• Experience using mixed-method research approaches
• Experience contributing to externally funded research projects
• Demonstrated ability to translate research findings for policy or practice audiences

If you have questions about this position, please contact Dr. Kate Gallagher, ECEI Director, at kgallagher@ou.edu

Application Instructions

You will submit all required documents in Interfolio

The following documents are required:

• Cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position.
• Current CV, including projected dates of degree completion and pending publications if applicable.
• Research statement outlining current research, methodological expertise, and research/career goals.
• At least one first-author peer-reviewed publication (published or in progress).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Mission of the University of Oklahoma

The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.