Research Director-Institute of Early Childhood
4 months ago
Who We Are:
National Louis is a 135+ year old university that has been grounded in the values of innovation, access, excellence, and equity from its inception. As an institution, we believe in providing access to educational opportunity and that education is our greatest lever for social and economic mobility. We are a student-focused community that is committed to continuous improvement and superior student service. We believe that through education we are able to empower change and build healthy communities. Our hard-working community is based on collaboration and respect for all team members and students.
What We Offer:
At National Louis University, we offer our employees an innovative environment to work together and inspire the ideas that will make an impact. As our external environment changes, our employees are provided the opportunities and tools needed to grow both personally and professionally to remain successful. NLU employees and dependents are offered a wide range of benefits, including but not limited to, Health Insurance benefits, Retirement benefits, Paid Time Off and Educational Benefits.
Job Summary:
The McCormick Institute for Early Childhood at National Louis University offers an exciting new leadership opportunity for a Director for Research. The Director of Research for the Institute of Early Childhood is a senior-level 12-month administrative faculty position reporting to the Executive Director of the Institute.
We seek a colleague whose research interests include a focus on the efficacy of postsecondary early childhood education teacher preparation, programming and professional development, the impact of effective early childhood leadership, and needs of the workforce. We are especially interested in qualified candidates with a demonstrated commitment and experience working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and members of underrepresented groups, and who have a demonstrated track record of research in early childhood.
The Director of Research for The McCormick Institute for Early Childhood is a senior-level position reporting to the Executive Director of the Institute. The Director advances equity in the field of early childhood education through the development and execution of an applied research agenda that is focused on advancing knowledge of Early Childhood program efficacy as it applies to women of color who have historically been marginalized, under-paid, and unevenly or under-trained. The applied research agenda ensures that the Institute is well positioned to inform policy, advance practice, and to better understand and design innovations that can best meet the needs of a complex, diverse and multi-faceted Early Childhood Workforce, including that of leaders and administrators in the field. In addition, the Director develops, leads, and manages ECE program evaluation across the Institute, designing evaluation plans that ensure comprehensive data collection and analysis that can be used in research initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
The Director fosters collaboration among stakeholders interested in applying research to solve issues facing the Early Childhood workforce, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for children, families and communities. The Director has primary responsibility for securing funding required for research projects and disseminates research findings through publications, presentations, and other channels. The Director of Research collaborates with interdisciplinary faculty researchers from across the university, as well as program evaluators, fellows, and graduate students, helping to advance the research capabilities of the Institute and NLU. This role is pivotal in demonstrating the efficacy of practical applications, driving innovation, and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and advocates/administrative policymakers for the field, ultimately advancing early childhood practice and informing relevant policy.
Essential Responsibilities
Research Leadership:
- Develop, lead and manage applied research agenda for the McCormick Institute for Early Childhood.
- Develop research strategies, objectives, and priorities in alignment with organizational goals and industry needs.
- Identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities for applied research in the field.
- Foster a culture of innovation and excellence in research.
- Supervise a core team of researchers who engage in enacting the research agenda for the Institute.
- Develop, lead, and manage strategic ECE program evaluations across the Institution, designing evaluation plans that ensure comprehensive data collection and analysis that can be used in research initiatives.
- Prepare evaluation reports and presentations that clearly communicate findings, insights, and recommendations to stakeholders, including program managers, funders, and decision-makers and policy makers.
- Collaborate with program staff to integrate evaluation findings into program planning, implementation, and improvement efforts.
- Identify funding opportunities and secure research grants, contracts, and sponsorships.
- Manage research budgets, resources, and expenditures effectively.
- Ensure compliance with funding regulations and reporting requirements.
- Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with industry partners, faculty across the institution, and other stakeholders.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange and technology transfer between academia and industry.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle complex research problems.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and other relevant outlets.
- Present research findings at conferences, seminars, and industry events.
- Engage in public outreach and knowledge mobilization activities to communicate research impacts to diverse audiences.
- Provide guidance and support to interdisciplinary faculty researchers from across the university, program evaluators, fellows, and graduate students in their professional development.
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive research environment that values diversity and equity.
- Contribute to the development of long-term research strategies and plans.
- Evaluate the effectiveness and impact of research initiatives through performance metrics and indicators.
- Identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance research outcomes and productivity.
- Doctorate Degree in Early Childhood Education, Childhood Development, Development Psychology, Social Psychology, sociology, Educational Leadership, Applied Research, Program Evaluation, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or related required
- Five plus (5+) years of Research Experience: A demonstrated track record of conducting high-quality research in Early Childhood Education, including publications in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, and other scholarly contributions.
- Five plus (5+) years of Leadership Experience: Experience in providing leadership and direction in research initiatives, such as leading research teams, managing research projects, or serving in leadership roles within academic or research institutions.
- Five plus (5+) years of Grant Funding: Experience in securing research funding through competitive grants, contracts, or other funding mechanisms, demonstrating the ability to develop and manage research proposals and budgets effectively.
- Five plus (5+) years of Mentorship and Supervision: Experience in mentoring and supervising interdisciplinary faculty researchers from across the university, program evaluators, fellows, graduate students junior faculty members in research activities, providing guidance and support for their professional development.
- Five plus (5+) years Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Experience in collaborating across disciplines or fields of study to address complex research questions or challenges, demonstrating the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary teams.
- Five plus (5+) years Industry or Community Engagement: Experience in collaborating with industry partners, community organizations, government agencies, or other stakeholders to address real-world problems and apply research findings to practical applications or solutions.
- Five plus (5+) years Commitment to Equity and Inclusion: Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in research activities and outcomes, including fostering an inclusive research environment and addressing systemic barriers to participation and representation.
- Applied Research Leadership & Expertise: Ability to provide strategic direction and leadership in applied research initiatives, guiding the research agenda, setting research priorities, and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the organization or academic department. Deep understanding and expertise in the principles, methodologies, and practices of applied research, with a track record of conducting high-quality, impactful research projects in a relevant field or discipline. Commitment to upholding the highest standards of research ethics and integrity, including ensuring compliance with ethical guidelines, protocols, and regulations governing research conduct and participant protection.
- Grant Writing and Fundraising: Experience in securing research funding through grant writing, proposal development, and fundraising activities, including identifying funding opportunities, crafting compelling proposals, and building relationships with funding agencies and donors.
- Evaluation Design: Proficiency in designing comprehensive evaluation plans tailored to the specific objectives, context, and requirements of programs and initiatives, including defining evaluation questions, selecting appropriate methodologies, and developing data collection instruments.
- Knowledge Translation and Dissemination: Ability to effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences through publications, presentations, reports, and other knowledge translation activities, and to facilitate the uptake of research findings by stakeholders and end-users.
- Strategic Planning and Evaluation: Capacity to develop and implement strategic plans and performance metrics to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of applied research activities, assess research outcomes, and inform future research directions and resource allocation decisions.
- Project Management: Manages each stage of a project to ensure that commitments are met in a manner that is timely and within budget. Clearly defines roles and responsibilities, determines necessary resources, and monitors project performance through appropriate systems and procedures.
NLU Inclusion Statement:
National Louis University is deeply committed to serving its community, advancing access and equity, and ensuring that all individuals are welcomed and valued. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where diversity, equity, and inclusion remain at the core of who we are. These are more than just words to us: they are truly a way of life for the NLU community. We recognize that differences in abilities, age, ethnicity, gender (identity and expression), race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, and background bring richness to our work environment. We affirm diverse perspectives, innovative contributions, and authentic presentations of self from every member within the NLU community. We believe inclusion is grounded in the actions we intentionally take each day. Our goal is to inspire and empower NLU employees and community members to cultivate an environment where we collectively focus on uplifting and advancing our institutional culture.
Special Instructions
Please Include the following along with your application: - Resume (Required) - Cover Letter (Required)
-
Chicago, Illinois, United States Erikson Institute Full timeJob OpportunityErikson Institute, a leading graduate school in child development, is seeking a highly qualified Associate Director to join our Home-Based Child Care Research Initiative. This full-time position will be responsible for overseeing research operations, developing new funding proposals, and leading dissemination efforts.Key...
-
Chicago, Illinois, United States Erikson Institute Full timeJob Title: Associate Director of Home-Based Child Care ResearchErikson Institute is seeking a highly qualified Associate Director to lead research initiatives focused on home-based child care. The successful candidate will have a strong background in policy-relevant research and a deep understanding of early care and education policy.Key...
-
Chicago, Illinois, United States Erikson Institute Full timeJob Title: Associate Director of Home-Based Child Care ResearchErikson Institute is seeking a highly qualified Associate Director to lead research initiatives focused on home-based child care. The successful candidate will have a strong background in policy-relevant research and a deep understanding of early care and education policy.Key...
-
Staff Clinician
3 days ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Erikson Institute Full timeJob SummaryErikson Institute Center for Children and Families is seeking a Staff Clinician to provide comprehensive assessment and treatment services to families with young children (birth to 8-years old) and their caregivers from a relationship-based perspective.The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience and be licensed or...
-
Early Childhood Educator
2 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Full timeJob Title: Infant/Toddler Lead TeacherJoin the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago as an Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher and be part of a team that makes a positive impact in the lives of children and families.About the Role:The Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher is responsible for providing high-quality early childhood education and care to infants and toddlers in our Early...
-
Early Childhood Educator and Center Director
2 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Learning Express Child Care Full timeJob OverviewWe are seeking a highly qualified and experienced Early Childhood Educator and Center Director to join our team at Learning Express Child Care. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in child development and education, with a minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a similar role.The successful candidate will be responsible for...
-
Early Childhood Educator
3 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Start Early Full timeJob Title: Head Start Teacher AideAt Start Early, we are committed to providing high-quality care and education to children from birth to five years old. As a Head Start Teacher Aide, you will play a vital role in supporting the development of our young learners.Job Summary:We are seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as a Head Start...
-
Early Childhood Education Director
4 days ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Erie Neighborhood House Full timeJob Title: Lead Preschool TeacherAt Erie Neighborhood House, we are seeking a highly qualified and dedicated Lead Preschool Teacher to join our team. As a key member of our early childhood education program, you will be responsible for providing developmentally and culturally appropriate lesson plans, promoting a positive and inclusive classroom environment,...
-
Early Childhood Education Assistant
3 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Start Early Full timeJob Title: Early Head Start Teacher AssistantAt Start Early, we are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated Early Head Start Teacher Assistant to join our team. As a key member of our early childhood education program, you will play a vital role in providing high-quality care and education to children from birth to five years old.Job Summary:The Early Head...
-
Early Childhood Educator
2 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Irving Park Early Learning Center Full timeJob TitleEarly Childhood EducatorWe are seeking a dedicated and passionate Early Childhood Educator to join our team at Irving Park Early Learning Center. As an Infant Teacher, you will play a vital role in creating a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters the growth and development of our youngest learners.Responsibilities:Design and implement...
-
Staff Clinician
1 week ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Erikson Institute Full timeJob SummaryWe are seeking a skilled Staff Clinician to join our team at the Erikson Institute Center for Children and Families. As a relationship-based therapist, you will work with infants and young children (birth to 8-years old) and their caregivers to provide comprehensive assessment and treatment services.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide individual parent...
-
Early Childhood Educator
2 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Open Space Early Learning Center Full timeJob OpportunityWe are seeking a dedicated and passionate Early Childhood Educator to join our team at Open Space Early Learning Center.About the RoleAs an Infant Care Specialist, you will be responsible for creating and implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans, interacting with children to encourage and support play, exploration, and learning,...
-
Early Childhood Educator
4 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Full timeJob Title: Infant/Toddler Lead TeacherWe are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher to join our team at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. As a key member of our Early Education and Care team, you will play a vital role in providing high-quality early learning experiences for children ages 6 weeks-3 years old.Job Summary:The...
-
Early Childhood Educator
3 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Full timeJob Title: Infant/Toddler Lead TeacherWe are seeking a highly qualified and experienced Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher to join our team at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. As a key member of our Early Education and Care team, you will play a vital role in providing high-quality early learning experiences for children ages 6 weeks-3 years old.Job Summary:The...
-
Early Childhood Educator
1 week ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Full timeJob Title: Infant/Toddler Lead TeacherJoin the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago team as an Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children and their families.About the Role:We are seeking a highly qualified and dedicated Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher to join our Early Education and Care team. As an Infant/Toddler Lead...
-
Early Childhood Educator
2 months ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Open Space Early Learning Center Full timeJob OverviewWe are seeking a dedicated and passionate Early Childhood Educator to join our team at Open Space Early Learning Center. As an Infant Teacher, you will play a vital role in creating a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters the growth and development of our youngest learners.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement developmentally...
-
Early Childhood Education Specialist
1 month ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Enlace Chicago Full timeJob Title: Early Childhood Pipeline SpecialistEnlace Chicago is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Early Childhood Pipeline Specialist to join our team. As a key member of our Education Department, you will play a critical role in supporting the Little Village Education Collaborative (LVEC) Early Childhood Education working committee.Job Summary:The...
-
Early Childhood Educator
3 days ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Full timeJob SummaryWe are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher to join our Early Education and Care team at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.The successful candidate will be responsible for providing high-quality educational programs for children ages 6 weeks-3 years old, promoting their social, emotional, and cognitive development.Key...
-
Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education
2 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States The Goddard School of Chicago (West Loop), IL Full timeJob Title: Assistant Director, Early Childhood EducationJob Summary:The Goddard School of Chicago (West Loop), IL is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Assistant Director to oversee the daily operations of our school. As a key member of our leadership team, you will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of education and care for our...
-
Early Childhood Educator
4 weeks ago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Open Space Early Learning Center Full timeJob Opportunity at Open Space Early Learning CenterWe are seeking a dedicated and passionate Infant Teacher to join our team at Open Space Early Learning Center. As a key member of our staff, you will play a vital role in providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for our youngest learners.Key Responsibilities:Develop and implement developmentally...
