University of Chicago is hiring a Sr. Research Specialist - Teaching & Learning

Department Psychology Research Neuroscience Division About the Department To revolutionize mental health through empathetic, groundbreaking interdisciplinary approaches, pioneering scientific exploration, and cultivating future leaders committed to enhancing individual, familial, and community wellness. Job Summary The Senior Research Specialist Team Lead orchestrates the development and implementation of impactful educational experiences. This role interacts extensively with cross-functional teams to synchronize curriculum, training methodologies, and learner requirements. By integrating instructional design expertise with people-focused leadership, the position ensures teaching and learning practices remain engaging, effective, and accessible. Responsibilities - Provide strategic leadership and comprehensive support for Teaching & Learning Specialists. - Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the team, conducting periodic reviews and updates. - Mentor and train staff to enhance instructional practices and facilitate professional development. - Collaborate with Training & Certification and Instructional Design teams to harmonize curriculum and ensure learning initiative consistency. - Engage with Technology & User Support Team to guarantee course design aligns with technical delivery mechanisms. - Critically evaluate and refine training content, applying advanced adult learning principles and industry best practices. - Address and resolve escalated issues related to training content or delivery processes. - Furnish leadership with comprehensive updates and strategic recommendations on teaching and learning approaches. - Contribute to cross-team and organizational initiatives beyond core responsibilities, including event coordination and process optimization. - Demonstrate experience managing jurisdiction-based training systems, supervising trainers, and supporting statewide implementation. - Provide expert guidance to researchers regarding compliance with institutional, state, and federal regulatory frameworks, policies, and mandates. - Offer specialized expertise to researchers and research support personnel, overseeing data collection and analysis activities. - Spearhead laboratory establishment, manage equipment procurement, and ensure efficient operational maintenance and repair. - Enhance administrative aspects of research projects, including financial planning, personnel management, and regulatory compliance. - Collaborate with researchers on long-term project strategies, investigating and applying innovative procedures and technological applications. - Perform additional related tasks as required. Minimum Qualifications Education: University degree in relevant field Work Experience: 7+ years of specialized professional experience Certifications: None specified Preferred Qualifications Education: - Advanced graduate degree Experience: - Expertise in instructional design, pedagogical approaches, and adult learning methodologies Technical Skills: - Proficiency in computational methods and statistical analysis of large-scale neural datasets - Comprehensive understanding of research regulatory policies and procedures - Advanced instructional design and adult learning knowledge Preferred Competencies - Exceptional project management capabilities - Superior communication and coaching skills - Strategic thinking balancing innovation and consistency - Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 and Learning Management Systems - Prior leadership experience - Strong organizational abilities - Excellent verbal and written communication - Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in multidisciplinary environments Application Documents - Resume/CV (required) - Cover Letter (required) Job Family: Research Role Impact: Individual Contributor Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Drug Test: No Health Screen: No Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry: No Pay Rate Type: Salary FLSA Status: Exempt Pay Range: $80,000.00 - $120,000.00 Benefits Eligible: Yes Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion, providing reasonable accommodations and comprehensive background evaluation.