The Harvard University Graduate School of Education invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow Position with Dr. Ebony Bridwell-Mitchell, the Herbert A. Simon Professor in Education, Management, and Organizational Behavior. The position is part of a grant-funded project combining theories of organizations, institutions, and education reform.

The project examines the extent to which the use of research evidence and epistemology is a catalyst for institutional change in persistently low-performing school organizations often designated for ‘turnaround’.

Position Details:

• Appointment: Full-time, in-person (Cambridge, MA)
• Term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
• Salary: $82,000 (12-month appointment, full benefits)
• Application review begins: November 10, 2025 (rolling basis)

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Education, Organization and Management Theory, Organizational Behavior, Organizational Sociology, Sociology of Education or similar by the position start date.
• Strong background in qualitative and quantitative research methods, solid understanding of experimental design and program evaluation.
• Experience collaborating with schools and districts or other organizations in the field, such as state education agencies and technical assistance organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects independently, work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams and thrive with emergent work processes.
• Strong project management skills; experience with conference or event planning is a strong plus.
• Commitment to executing work to the highest standards of excellence.

Application Instructions:
Applicants should review the W.T. Grant–funded research project proposal and submit the following materials via Interfolio: https://apply.interfolio.com/175715:

1. A 2–3-page reflection on the project’s theoretical motivation, empirical strategy, and implications
2. A 1–2-page cover letter outlining relevant expertise and experience
3. A curriculum vitae
4. Names of three references (letters not required at the initial stage)

For full details, see the complete position announcement (PDF).

For inquiries, please contact Dr. Bridwell-Mitchell’s faculty coordinator kyla_painter@gse.harvard.edu.

Learn more about Dr. Bridwell-Mitchell’s work:

• Faculty profile
• Video introduction