Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoc position focused on low-income and first-generation engineering students at San Francisco State University!

Are you...

• Interested in understanding and supporting the success of low-income and first-generation engineering students?
• Committed to asset-based approaches in teaching and research?
• Looking to deepen your expertise in qualitative research, undergraduate mentorship, and project management?
• Interested in learning more about teaching and conducting research at a predominantly undergraduate, Hispanic-Serving Institution (PUI/HSI)?
• Completed—or about to complete—a Ph.D. in engineering or STEM education, the social sciences, or an engineering discipline with an interest in engineering education?

Then this postdoctoral opportunity could be for you!

The Gator Engineering Education Research Lab at San Francisco State University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to begin in late 2026 or early 2027. The successful candidate will work on an NSF CAREER award led by Dr. Stephanie Claussen, Understanding and Transforming Engineering Education at Broad-Access Institutions.

The postdoctoral researcher will lead data collection, management, and qualitative analysis for the project. The research focuses primarily on interviews with engineering students, faculty, and staff. The postdoc will also contribute to disseminating findings through journal articles and conference presentations and will mentor undergraduate and master's students participating in the project.

Position highlights

• Funding is available for travel to San Francisco to collaborate with the project team and to present research at conferences.
• The position may be completed remotely or in person. Because of California State employment requirements, the successful candidate must reside in California during the appointment.
• Flexible start date between late 2026 and early 2027.
• The appointment is budgeted at 50% full-time effort, with an annual salary of $65,000 (prorated to the appointment percentage). The 50% appointment is designed to provide flexibility for candidates who wish to pursue complementary activities, such as developing an independent research program, teaching, writing, consulting, or balancing personal commitments.
• There may be opportunities to supplement the appointment through additional teaching or research assignments, depending on departmental needs and the candidate's interests.
• Includes health and dental benefits for the researcher and eligible dependents.
• Initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year based on funding and performance.

For most information on the position and how to apply, contact PI Stephanie Claussen (sclaussen@sfsu.edu).