Job Description

Are you passionate about machine learning, education, and making an impact? Do you want to contribute to groundbreaking research and help scale educational technologies? Join the ASSISTments Project at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and work alongside Dr. Neil Heffernan in advancing cutting-edge educational research while shaping the future of learning!

Why This Role?

This unique opportunity offers a blend of research, technology, and real-world impact in education. With funding from the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), National Science Foundation (NSF), and the U.S. Department of Education, the E-TRIALS Project is seeking a full-time Research Scientist for the ASSISTments Project, which aims to revolutionize how students learn math.

You will be part of a collaborative team developing AI-driven tools to support teachers, students, and researchers, directly influencing how educational interventions are designed and tested. You’ll also get the chance to assist in grant writing and gain Co-PI experience, a valuable asset for your future career.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Machine Learning Infrastructure: Manage and advance the ML infrastructure behind the ASSISTments platform. Bring your experience with machine learning, reinforcement learning, natural language processing (NLP), and LLMs to the table to shape the future of the system.
2. Collaborative Research: Work closely with Dr. Heffernan's PhD students, supporting the development of cutting-edge interventions for education.
3. Grant Writing & Fundraising: Learn the art of grant writing alongside Dr. Heffernan, and participate in the creation of NSF proposals, expanding your expertise in securing funding for future research.
4. Project Coordination: Coordinate across multiple teams, helping manage timelines and ensuring successful delivery of project goals. You will play a pivotal role in system testing and communication with academic and educational stakeholders.
5. Innovative Problem-Solving: Participate in designing and testing infrastructure that reduces costs for educational research, making data more accessible for researchers.

What You Bring:

• Required Experience:
  • PhD in Computer Science, Information Sciences, Data Science, or a related field.
  • Experience with machine learning, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing.
  • Strong ability to manage cross-team projects and contribute to academic discussions with a focus on clear, concise communication.
  • Proactive, entrepreneurial approach to both independent and team projects.
• Preferred Experience:
  • Previous experience in K-12 education organizations or educational technology is a plus.
  • Experience with the Google suite and AirTable/GoogleSheets (spreadsheets) is helpful.
  • A collaborative spirit and experience working in a fast-growing startup environment.

Why WPI?

At WPI, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and shaping a diverse, inclusive community. As a Research Scientist, you'll have access to world-class resources and work in a dynamic environment that fosters innovation. Our competitive benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, work-life balance, and much more.

We value diversity and strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive. Your voice, perspective, and creativity will help drive us to new heights in research and education.

How to Apply:

Submit your formal application via WPI’s online portal. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

For Questions:
Email Angela Kao at akao@wpi.edu for more information.

Join Us and Make an Impact in Education!

Become a key part of an innovative team that is transforming how students engage with math, while advancing your career with valuable experience and hands-on leadership in both research and grant writing.

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. WPI is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals are respected and supported in reaching their full potential.