Research Programmer, University of Pennsylvania Center for Learning Analytics

The University of Pennsylvania Center for Learning Analytics is looking for a research programmer to assist with ongoing projects. The successful applicant will help develop infrastructure for data analysis and sharing.  This programmer will participate in with collaborations between our UPenn research team and other universities, with primary responsibilities including the processing and analyzing of data, including the implementation of machine learning and data mining algorithms in educational contexts.

The programmer will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary research team in conducting education research across the United States and beyond. The successful applicant will assist graduate students and post-docs in developing, implementing, and documenting project source code, as well as assisting the Center Director and other project members with disseminating scientific results.

About the Center

The Penn Center for Learning Analytics uses a blend of large-scale and small-scale research methods, from analytics and data mining to ethnographic and field observation methods, to study learning and engagement. We conduct research on both state-of-the-art online learning environments and traditional classroom instruction, investigating what approaches and methods can best enhance long-term student outcomes.

Essential requirements:

• Background in Computer Science or related field
• Significant experience with Python (particularly implementation of complex algorithms and experience working with large-scale codebases)
• Web-based programming experience (JavaScript, Ruby, etc.)
• Relational Database experience (SQL, Mongo DB, or similar)
• Ability to work well in a team-based, fast-paced research environment
• Documentation and communication skills

Preferred:

• Experience integrating with cloud computing stacks such as AWS or Google Cloud
• Experience running algorithms in scikit-learn
• Understanding of Machine Learning and Data Mining processes
• Relevant experience working with educational or other learning data

Salary and benefits commensurate with experience and the standard packages offered by research universities. Either a part-time or full-time position is available to the right candidate.

Anticipated start date: Q1 2021 – Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Candidates must be based in the United States but may work remotely.

Please contact Ryan Shaun Baker (ryanshaunbaker@gmail.com) with inquiries or to send your resume/CV.