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Postdoctoral Literacy Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Literacy information

What is a postdoctoral literacy position?

Postdoctoral literacy positions are research-focused roles for individuals who have recently completed their doctoral degrees and wish to further specialize in literacy education or literacy studies. These positions typically involve conducting original research, collaborating with faculty, publishing findings, and sometimes teaching or mentoring graduate students. The goal is to deepen expertise in literacy topics such as reading development, literacy interventions, or literacy policy. Postdocs in literacy often work in universities, research institutes, or educational organizations, and are usually temporary roles lasting one to three years.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Literacy vs Postdoctoral Education?

AspectPostdoctoral LiteracyPostdoctoral Education
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in literacy, education, or related fieldDoctoral degree in education or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, academic settingsResearch institutions, universities, academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic research, literacy programs, educational policyEducational research, curriculum development, policy analysis
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research focus and specialization in literacyExploring broader educational research and policy roles

Postdoctoral Literacy focuses on research and expertise specifically in literacy education, often involving specialized research projects. Postdoctoral Education has a broader scope within educational research, encompassing various aspects of education beyond literacy. Both roles typically require a doctoral degree and are based in academic or research settings, but they differ in their specific focus areas and career paths.

What are some common challenges postdoctoral researchers in literacy face during their projects?

Postdoctoral researchers in literacy often encounter challenges such as securing funding for independent research, balancing teaching or mentoring responsibilities with their own scholarly work, and establishing a unique research identity separate from their doctoral studies. Additionally, navigating interdisciplinary collaborations and publishing in high-impact journals can be demanding. Building a professional network and gaining experience in grant writing are also crucial steps for advancing in academia or related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral researcher in literacy, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Literacy, you need a doctoral degree in literacy, education, or a related field, along with strong research, data analysis, and academic writing skills. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research software (such as NVivo, SPSS, or R) and experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals are typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills help you engage with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to innovative literacy research. These skills and qualifications are crucial for advancing scholarly understanding, securing research funding, and making impactful contributions to literacy education.
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Literacy jobs in Indiana? For Postdoctoral Literacy jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Postdoctoral Literacy jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Postdoctoral Literacy job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Literacy job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Senior Principal Research Scholar: Epigenetics (Indianapolis)

Purdue University

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


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Job description

Senior Principal Research Scholar: Epigenetics (Indianapolis)
City: Indianapolis
Job Description:
Job Summary
Are you a driven scientist passionate about the genetics and epigenetics of mental health? The Dunn Lab at Purdue University, led by Dr. Erin C. Dunn, is seeking a Senior Principal Research Scholar-Epigenetics to contribute to pioneering research that integrates social and biological sciences to address mental health challenges. In this role, you will function as a senior research scientist, supporting the science of the Dunn Lab. You will oversee day-to-day research operations focused on computational genetics and epigenetics, contributing to study design, data analysis, and the mentorship of lab members. This position offers career stability outside the tenure track and the chance for additional experience and mentorship.
The Senior Principal Research Scholar: Epigenetics will work in close collaboration with the Lab Principal Investigator (Dr. Dunn) to design and direct research projects related to the epigenetic work of the Dunn Lab. You will be instrumental in developing new studies, leading a multidisciplinary team, and ensuring the success of our research projects. You will be one of two research scholars in the lab, with the other focused on the lab's novel work using baby teeth to understand mental health. This position offers career stability outside the tenure track and the chance for additional experience and mentorship. Learn more about our research at the Dunn Lab and Purdue University in Indianapolis.
Responsibilities Include:
  • Oversee day-to-day operations of computational based genetics and epigenetics research projects.
  • Lead study design, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
  • Oversee day-to-day supervision and mentoring lab members, including postdoctoral fellows and research assistants.
  • Contribute to grant writing, including identifying funding opportunities and assembling applications.
  • Write and present scholarly work for both academic and broader audiences.
  • Present findings at national and international conferences.
  • Co-develop long-term research strategies in collaboration with Dr. Dunn.
  • Execute tasks with a high attention to detail.
  • Self-start tasks and find areas for improvement throughout the lab.

What We're Looking For:
Required:
Education and Experience:
  • PhD in epidemiology, public health, genetics, epigenetics, or another social or biological science.
  • Five years of research experience, two or more are post-doctoral.
  • Epigenetics and statistical research background in an academic setting.
  • Experience working with longitudinal omics-related data.
  • A working knowledge of R and data analysis pipelines.
  • Experience supervising teams of 3 or more members.

Skills Needed:
  • Experience in fast-paced, multi-disciplinary research environment.
  • Strong knowledge data analysis pipelines.
  • Advanced knowledge of statistical and epidemiological study design.
  • Proven ability to learn new computational tools and packages.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Understanding of data management and data analysis workflows.
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to interpret acceptability of data.
  • High degree of computer literacy.
  • Careful attention to detail.
  • Good organizational skills.
  • Ability to identify problems and develop solutions.

What is Helpful:
  • Advanced knowledge of statistical and epidemiological study design in an academic research setting.
  • Prior experience with cross-disciplinary collaborations and departments in an academic setting.
  • Past experience in teaching, instruction, or mentorship.

Additional Information:
  • For full consideration, please include an updated cover letter and resume with your application materials.
  • Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period

Purdue University is an EO/EA University.
Career Stream
Professional 4
Pay Band S125
Job Code #20003718

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