Organization and Management Theory OMT

The Harvard University Graduate School of Education invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow Position with Dr. Ebony Bridwell-Mitchell, The Herbert A. Simon Professor in Education, Management, and Organizational Behavior on a project combining theories of organizations, institutions, and education reform.

The grant-funded project examines the extent to which the use of research evidence and epistemology is a catalyst for institutional change in persistently low-performing school organizations often designated for 'turnaround'. The appointment is for an in-person, full-time position based in Cambridge, MA July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.

Well-qualified candidates for this position have a background in organization theory as well as ideally in institutional theory and the study of schools or education organizations. Well-qualified candidates also have a methodological background in both qualitative and quantitative methods with some interest, and ideally experience, in experimental methods.

Research focus areas include, but are not limited to:

• Institutional processes and change
• Field configuring events
• Education or public sector organizations
• Organizational interventions
• Mixed-methods research
• Program evaluation

The postdoc will take a leading role in continuing development of the research design for the project, overseeing the research team, participant recruitment, and data collection, including implementing the experimental procedure, as well as data processing in preparation for analysis. Co-authored and solo-authored manuscripts related to the research are expected and desired. The position requires close collaboration with Dr. Bridwell-Mitchell, including on related aspects of her research program and broader work.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Education, Organization and Management Theory, Organizational Behavior, Organizational Sociology, Sociology of Education or similar by the position start date.
• Strong background in qualitative and quantitative research methods, solid understanding of experimental design and program evaluation.
• Experience collaborating with schools and districts or other organizations in the field, such as state education agencies and technical assistance organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects independently, work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams and thrive with emergent work processes.
• Strong project management skills; experience with conference or event planning is a strong plus.
• Commitment to executing work to the highest standards of excellence.

 Application Details

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting November 10, 2025. Interested applicants should review the W.T. Grant funded research project proposal and then submit the following materials via Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/175715  
• A 2–3-page summary of your reflections on the project's theoretical motivation, empirical strategy and implications for research, practice, and policy, emphasizing how various aspects resonate with your interests.
• A 1-2-page cover letter highlighting how your expertise and experience prepare you for the role, especially implementing the research methods for the project.
• A curriculum vitae
• The names of three references (letters are not required at the initial stage).
• Salary is based on a 12-month appointment at $82,000 and includes full benefits.