The Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of Missouri invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral research scholar position in Dr. Ashley Groh's Family & Child Development Laboratory.

Dr. Groh is seeking an excellent candidate for a postdoctoral position supported by the MU Research Excellent Program. Dr. Groh is currently conducting NIH- and NSF-funded longitudinal projects that examine women's neural adaptation to motherhood as a function of psychological risk in relation to mother and child outcomes in diverse families. In addition, there are existing large longitudinal data sets including samples of mothers, fathers, and infants that continue to be analyzed and published. Dr. Groh's lab also regularly conducts meta-analyses to evaluate developmental questions in light of extant data. Thus, the position allows for outstanding productivity and a great start of a research career.

Dr. Groh's research leverages observational assessments of family processes (e.g., attachment, parenting), interview measures of representations of early experiences (e.g., AAI, ASA), and measures of peripheral physiological (e.g., EDR, RSA, HR, PEP) and brain (EEG, ERP) activity examined over time. Thus, key skills include familiarity with data management of very large multi-method data sets and excellent data-analytic skills, especially those relevant to complex, large longitudinal studies. Expertise in at least one of the methods detailed above (e.g., attachment assessment or psychophysiology) is required. Training in other methods will be provided. Expertise in up-to-date approaches to multi-level data analysis and structural equation modeling, as well as familiarity with relevant computer packages (SPSS, R, etc.) is required. Strong writing skills are important as well. Candidates with strong academic backgrounds in developmental psychology, developmental psychopathology, human development and family studies, and/or neuroscience are encouraged to apply.

Dr. Groh and her lab are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Current projects in the lab include a focus on enhancing diversity in the study of the neuroscience of parent-child relationships, including a focus on mothers and fathers, as well as families from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Individuals with an interest in this work are encouraged to apply.

The postdoctoral position is supported by the MU Research Excellence Program (MU Research Excellence Program (REP) | University of Missouri Graduate School). REP postdocs are provided with a competitive salary (consistent with the NIH schedule) and professional development funds. REP postdocs are expected to apply for external funding, and receive support in grant writing and personalized guidance in finding funding. REP provides postdoctoral scholars with unique opportunities to prepare for a faculty career.

Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology, Human Development & Family Studies, Neuroscience, or related field. Ph.D. must be completed prior to start date.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

Expertise in parent-child relationships and socioemotional development.

Research skills in one or more of the following areas: observational assessments of parenting/parent-child relationships, interview assessments of attachment, and psychophysiology (EEG/ERP, autonomic physiology).

Strong longitudinal quantitative skills, including MLM, SEM, moderation, mediation, etc. Familiarity with relevant statistical packages (e.g., SPSS, R, etc.).

Excellent writing skills.

Interested individuals should submit:

1. A letter of interest that describes research accomplishments, skills, and future research plans
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Names and contact information of 2-3 individuals who will provide letters of recommendation if asked.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, but applications received by January 5, 2024 will receive the best consideration. Expected start date is June 1, 2024, but may be negotiated (start date cannot be later than September 4, 2024). Candidates who have completed all the requirements for their Ph.D., but the degree has not yet been conferred, will be considered.

This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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