Predoctoral Research Professional

Department

SSD Social Sciences Research Center (SSRC) - Staff and Temporary Employees

About the Department

The University of Chicago Knowledge Lab (PI Professor James A. Evans) leverages advanced computational tools to unravel complex scientific and societal problems, bridging the gap between data-driven insights and real-world applications. The scope of our research is broad, ranging from historical social change to the latest technological developments, from global economic trajectories to local cultural practices, and from lone maverick scholars to massive scientific revolutions.

Job Summary

The Knowledge Lab seeks applicants for a one-year Research Professional position. The ideal candidate will have interest and experience in empirical research applying advanced computational methods to explore knowledge production and diffusion. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor James A. Evans and Dr. Austin C. Kozlowski.

This role performs routine assignments related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Writes articles, reports and manuscripts. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates on research projects in the Science of Science and Artificial Intelligence.
• Collects, transforms, and procesess raw and unstructured data into usable formats.
• Analyzes large datasets and deep learning models.
• Produces write-ups and reports of findings.
• Participates in lab meetings.
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

• At least 1 year of research experience.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Proficiency coding in Python.
• Proficient with NLP techniques such as word and document embeddings.
• Skilled using clustering and dimensionality reduction techniques such as K-means and PCA
• Proficient at implementing Neural Networks using Tensorflow, PyTorch, Scikit-Learn, OpenCV, deep learning, and other artificial intelligence techniques.
• Skilled with image classification/recognition and tools to analyze illustrations in addition to photographs.
• Familiarity with Linux, UNIX, and High Performance Computing environment.
• Background forming and testing hypotheses.

Preferred Competencies

• Proven ability to work effectively in small teams, demonstrating a strong desire to both learn from and mentor other team members.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• High attention to detail and quality in data analysis and written material.
• Drive to learn new programming or data analysis techniques.
• Strong communication skills and break down complex technical problems.
• Demonstrated ability to review and prioritize work independently and effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to be resourceful and creative in problem-solving.

Working Conditions

• Predoctoral Scholar will be based out of Chicago, IL.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)
• References Contact Information (3)(required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required
 

No

Health Screen Required
 

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$47,806.00 - $61,867.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement
 

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.