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Research Associate


Job Location:

Lawrence, KS - USA

Monthly Salary: Not provided by the employer
Posted: 22 August 2026 (23 days ago)
Application Deadline: 19 November 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Job Description
40% - Support the design planning and implementation of learning map projects. Activities may include:
  • Representing formal learning structures using diagramming applications or in proprietary map-building software in response to program priorities.
  • Collaborating with research implementation and content teams to coordinate internal and external reviews of learning maps.
  • Reviewing internal and external panel feedback and adjusting maps in response to feedback and new research findings.
  • Producing technical documentation of map development projects.
  • Supervising graduate research assistants.
25% - Collaborate with other functional teams to develop high-quality accessible map-based educational materials to support teaching and learning of mathematics for all learners. Responsibilities may include using K-12 academic content education knowledge to review instructional guides professional development materials and other documents to support teaching and learning mathematics.

20% - Conduct research syntheses in K-12 education. Evaluate empirical literature including summarizing results and preparing written reports.

5% - Communicate with external audiences including state departments of education and professional organizations. Present information related to learning maps to technical and non-technical audiences.

5% - Contribute to the development of proposals for funded research projects.

5% - Special projects/other duties as assigned.

Disclaimer
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race color ethnicity religion sex national origin age ancestry disability status as a veteran sexual orientation marital status parental status gender identity gender expression and genetic information in the universitys programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Room 1082 Dole Human Development Center 1000 Sunnyside Avenue Lawrence KSTTY.

Work Schedule
M-F; 8-5

Contact Information to Applicants
ATLASHR

  1. PhD in mathematics education educational psychology curriculum and instruction or a related field OR masters degree in mathematics education educational psychology curriculum and instruction or a related field and a minimum three (3) years experience in research and/or assessments that serve a wide range of learners
  2. One (1) year academic or professional experience conducting documenting and synthesizing developmental and empirical research.
  3. One (1) year of experience using complex spreadsheets and databases as evidenced by previous work history or professional training.
  4. Excellent oral and written communication skills for scholarly and practitioner audiences as evidenced by application materials.
This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices enhances collaboration with external partners and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations.

  1. One (1) year of experience in K-12 mathematics teaching or working directly with K-12 practitioners.
  2. One (1) year of experience working on projects that use frameworks of evidence-centered development and/or Universal Design for Learning.
  3. Prior work on projects related to contemporary academic content standards (e.g. Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards).
  4. Record of research on a topic related to the acquisition of academic knowledge and skills as evidenced by application materials.
  5. One (1) year of experience working in a multidisciplinary team-based environment as evidenced by work history professional training or a combination of both.
  6. One (1) year of experience in a leadership or supervisory capacity especially leadership of complex projects.


Position Overview
Accessible Teaching Learning and Assessment Systems (ATLAS) a research center at the University of Kansas (KU) is seeking a Research Associate to support the development of cognitive learning map models that represent students knowledge skills and understandings with a focus on K-12 mathematics instruction and assessment. The Research Associate will provide technical skills in research design management and dissemination for projects focused on developing models of mathematics learning and will collaborate with internal and external partners on product development project design and implementation. Additional responsibilities will include collaborating with other functional teams to develop high-quality assessments and instructional and professional development materials.

ATLAS promotes learning and improved outcomes for all students with a focus on students with disabilities and struggling learners. ATLAS creates technology-based learning and assessment systems that are accessible and academically rigorous. Dynamic research on skill development assessment design and teacher professional development informs the centers map-based learning systems.

With a diverse portfolio of grant-funded research projects and operational alternate assessments ATLAS is a leader in educational research and innovation. ATLAS drives progress through partnerships and collaborations with organizations that share its focus and commitment.

ATLAS is committed to creating policies and practices that foster a culture in which all employees feel they belong and can succeed.

Visit the ATLAS website to learn how the center improves the learning landscape for all students.

KU employees have great benefits!
  • 176 hours of paid vacation per year
  • 96 hours of sick leave per year
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Medical and dental insurance
  • Retirement program
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Educational and professional development opportunities
Visit the KU benefits website for more information.

KUs excellence is a result of the rich tapestry of experiences perspectives and backgrounds of our faculty staff students and colleagues from across our nation and the globe. At KU we invest in continuous learning and growth by creating a climate where people engage in respectful dialogue and debate and support each others success. We foster a culture of care where each person is valued. When people feel a true sense of belonging we believe they are better able to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable things.

KU is not able to provide immigration sponsorship for this position.

Due to complex state employment laws the University of Kansas may be unable to hire fully remote workers for this position outside of Kansas. Specifically we cannot currently offer employment to candidates residing in the following states: California Delaware Idaho and Minnesota. We appreciate your understanding and invite interested individuals from eligible states to apply.

Additional Candidate Instruction
A complete application consists of:
  1. A cover letter that describes how you meet the required and preferred qualifications
  2. A Resume or CV
  3. Contact information for three (3) professional references
Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Review of applications will begin Monday August 31st and continue until a qualified pool of applicants is identified.


  • This is a full-time (40 hours/week) unclassified position.
  • Depending on the centers and teams needs well qualified candidates may be allowed a work location that is hybrid or remote.
  • This position requires travel to Lawrence and/or other locations as needed depending on the needs of the center and team.
  • This position will require attendance at regularly scheduled meetings onsite or through telecommunication platforms.

Required Experience:

IC


About Company

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Thank you for your interest in employment with the University of Kansas. If you need assistance with the application process please contact Human Resources at [email protected] or 785-864-4946.

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