University of Chicago - Hartford, CT
posted 2 months ago
The Research Coordinator for the Connecticut Project at The University of Chicago will play a pivotal role in supporting the TMW Center's mission to enhance the cognitive and social-emotional development of very young children, particularly those living in poverty. This position is based in Connecticut and involves extensive fieldwork across the state, primarily in infant and toddler childcare settings. The Research Coordinator will be responsible for the on-the-ground coordination and implementation of research activities, working closely with childcare providers, teachers, families, and the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC). The role requires the Research Coordinator to engage in participant outreach and recruitment, ensuring that study participants are well-informed and supported throughout the research process. This includes maintaining regular communication with participants, conducting targeted recruitment efforts, and obtaining necessary consents in accordance with ethical research standards. The Coordinator will also provide implementation support, coaching, and training to ensure that study activities are executed with fidelity. In addition to participant support, the Research Coordinator will be involved in data collection and research support, gathering user feedback to inform program refinement and ensuring adherence to best practices in data collection. Building and nurturing relationships with childcare centers and other stakeholders is crucial for the success of the research partnership. The Coordinator will also provide technical, administrative, and logistical support to the project team, participating in meetings to share insights and updates on implementation progress. This position demands a significant amount of fieldwork, with up to 90% of the time spent visiting childcare providers and study participants. The working hours may vary, requiring flexibility to accommodate site visits and participant consent sessions, which may occur during evenings or weekends. Overall, the Research Coordinator will be instrumental in facilitating a successful research partnership that aims to improve language interactions between teachers and children, enhance job satisfaction among educators, and ultimately drive positive outcomes for young children in Connecticut.