Assistant Professor in Learning Sciences and Educational Psychology

College of Education, Department of Psychological and Quantitative Foundations

The University of Iowa 

Position Type: Full-Time, Tenure-Track 

Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications 

Location: Iowa City, Iowa 

Position Description 

The Department of Psychological and Quantitative Foundations at the University of Iowa invites applications for a tenure-track, assistant professor position in Learning Sciences and Educational Psychology. We seek candidates who are committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service, and who will contribute to a welcoming and respectful academic community. 

The primary function of this position is to serve as a core faculty member in the Learning Sciences and Educational Psychology (LSEP) program, teaching courses in the LSEP graduate programs, conducting research and pursuing grant funding in an area of specialization that supports the department mission, advising students, and providing service to the department, the college, and the profession.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct an original, active, funded program of research and scholarship in learning sciences and/or educational psychology.


• Publish high-impact scholarship in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences.


• Teach undergraduate and graduate level courses consistent with the program and departmental needs.


• Advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in the Learning Sciences and Education Psychology program, supporting learners in their academic and research goals.


• Supervise doctoral students’ dissertations.


• Provide program, department, college, and professional service, such as curriculum development, journal or conference reviewing, college and university committees, and leadership in relevant scholarly communities.


• Work in full collaboration with faculty members in the LSEP program, the department, and the university to consider new initiatives within the college and university.


• Foster partnerships with schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders to advance research and teaching goals.

Why Join Us? 

At the University of Iowa, you’ll thrive in a collaborative, welcoming, and intellectually rich environment. As a Big Ten, R1 institution, we offer the resources of a major university with the personal connections of a close-knit academic community. Our faculty are supported at every stage of their careers through mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities. Located in Iowa City, one of the most livable cities in America, you’ll enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, top-rated schools, and a welcoming community that values creativity, innovation, and work-life integration. Learn more about this community and resources at WorkLife at Iowa. 

About the College

Recognized as the State of Iowa’s top College of Education, we offer more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including licensure, endorsement, and certificate programs, many of which are regularly ranked among the best in the nation.  Students study with our world-renowned faculty who are the leaders in their fields.  Our college is comprised of four departments: Educational Policy and Leadership Studies, Psychological and Quantitative Foundations, Counselor Education, and Teaching and Learning.  The College houses several Centers that support work in critical areas of education, including UI REACH, Iowa Reading Research Center, Scanlan Center for School Mental Health, and the Belin-Blank Center for Gifted Education and Talent Development. The College is guided by a Strategic Plan which defines are mission and the vision and values that bolster it. 

Application Materials 

To apply, please submit the following materials: 

• Cover Letter 

• Curriculum Vitae 

• Contact information for three professional references 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

Additional Information 

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any misconduct history or pending research misconduct investigation, including but not limited to sexual misconduct in prior employment, and provide a related release. Final candidates will be subject to a criminal background and credential check. 

Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services at (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. 

For questions about the position, please contact: 

Professor Martin Kivlighan, martin-kivlighan@uiowa.edu 

Earned doctoral degree in Learning Sciences/Educational Psychology or related field.

Established record or evidence of strong potential for scholarship relevant to the Learning Sciences.

Potential for securing external funds for research, training, and program development.

Ability to teach, advise, and mentor graduate students in research and practice in the field of Learning Sciences and Educational Psychology.

Experience designing and implementing technology-enhanced learning environments or conducting design-based research.

Record of research in areas such as learning analytics, educational technology, affect and well-being in learning, or student experiences in STEM.

Experience collaborating in interdisciplinary research teams or partnerships with schools, universities, or educational organizations.

Record of mentoring undergraduate or graduate students in research.

Experience in developing or teaching courses in areas such as learning analytics, educational data science, educational psychology, or quantitative methods.

Experience presenting at professional conference and participation in national or international professional communities.

Proficiency with open science practices, open-source tools, or computational research platforms.