Postdoctoral Fellow: AI and Child Development at Harvard University

[Mathematics Education Researchers (MER) community]

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join Dr. Ying Xu’s research group in conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of AI, Child Development, and Education. This is a two-year, in-person position based in Cambridge, MA, with the possibility of renewal pending funding availability.

We seek a highly motivated candidate with a strong foundation in research methodologies and a deep interest in understanding learning and development in the context of AI. Research focus areas include, but are not limited to:Language development through child–AI interactions;
STEM learning, creativity, and curiosity through playful learning with AI;
Children’s beliefs, conceptualizations of AI agents, and AI literacy;
Cognitive and social mechanisms of AI-assisted learning;
Human-AI collaborative systems for supporting teaching practices;
Large-scale randomized controlled trials or surveys evaluating the impact of AI in educational settings

The postdoc will take a leading role in designing and conducting empirical studies and disseminating findings. They will work closely with Dr. Xu and other team members and collaborators across sectors and disciplines.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Education, Computer Science, Psychology, Cognitive Science, Linguistics, Informatics, or a related field, completed by the position’s start date
  
• Strong background in quantitative research methods, experimental design, and program evaluation; solid understanding of developmental psychology and learning theories
  
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
  
• Working knowledge of programming languages and practices (e.g., Python, GitHub) sufficient to collaborate effectively with technical team members
  
• Experience in independently developing AI systems is not required but will be viewed as a plus
  

Application Instructions

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting August 15, 2025. Interested applicants should submit the following materials:

• A one-page cover letter explaining how your skill set and research background align with the position;
  
• A curriculum vitae;
  
• The names of three references (letters are not required at the initial stage).
  

The start date is flexible, but a Fall 2025 start is preferred. Salary is based on a 12-month appointment and typically begins at $72,000, commensurate with the candidate’s experience and expertise.


For inquiries, please contact Dr. Ying Xu at yin...@g.harvard.edu

About the position: https://apply.interfolio.com/170921

Research Group: https://ying-xu.com/research/