Training in Research and Policy

There are rich and diverse opportunities for training in academic research and policy analysis at the National Center for Children and Families, including the following:

Graduate Research Fellowships

Teachers College doctoral students with policy research interests in children and families are eligible for Center Graduate Research Fellowships. Fellows learn about the nexus of policy, practice and research by working on specific Center projects related to children and families. Fellows are appointed for at least one year although our desire is to form a long-term mentoring relationship with each fellow. All Fellows to date have been appointed for two years. Individuals interested in applying to our fellowship program should begin by contacting Dr. Kagan or Dr. Brooks-Gunn.

Research Scientists

Research Scientists are post-doctoral fellows who have typically earned a degree in developmental psychology, education policy, family studies, or a related field. As post-doctoral fellows, they participate in the life of the Center in every capacity, including managing specific projects, training master’s and doctoral level students, writing policy reports, and attending conferences. The Center has about three Research Scientists each year. Individuals interested in applying should contact Dr. Kagan or Dr. Brooks-Gunn.

Research Assistants

Research Assistants are full-time positions at the Center. Although duties vary depending on individual assignments, Research Assistants help train data collectors and coordinate their activities; contribute to research reports; edit papers; help Co-Directors prepare for their teaching assignments; and assist Research Scientists and Center Co-Directors across a range of activities. There is typically one Research Assistant each year. For more information, please contact Dr. Elsie Spencer.