Postdoctoral Fellowship Position, UCLA Tarjan Center, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Los Angeles, CA

Department: UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior
Position available: Immediately
Length of position: Full time 1-2 years
Qualifications: A doctoral degree in a related field is required. Candidates with a strong background in developmental disabilities research are strongly encouraged to apply.
Supervisor: Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson (Director)

Mission of the UCLA Tarjan Center UCEDD:

The mission of the UCLA Tarjan Center, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities is to advance the self-determination, inclusion, and quality of life among the diversity of people with disabilities and their families. We accomplish our mission through collaborative leadership in training, community education, research, service, and information sharing.

We serve as a bridge between the resources of the university and local, state, and international organizations, agencies, policy makers, people with disabilities and their families.

Responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Fellow:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow who will engage in four major activities, including:

1. Serving as a key collaborator in a research project to examine the State of California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Self Determination Program (SDP). This is a statewide program available for clients of the regional centers throughout the state of California, providing individuals and their families with more freedom, control, and responsibility in choosing services and supports to help them meet objectives in their individual program plans. The Postdoctoral Fellow will spearhead efforts to develop and disseminate different surveys for ~2000 active and inactive SDP program participants. Some activities may include running focus groups, conducting interviews with ~200 active participants, analyzing survey information, developing a final report, and connecting with our federal partners doing work in this area.
2. Conducting research and training in activities related to postsecondary education for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
3. Supporting opportunities in obtaining competitive, integrated employment for autistic adults through the UCLA PEERS for Careers program.
4. Attending and presenting at national conferences and community meetings, participate on boards and committees at the national, state, and community levels, and attend community events to share information about the Center with the community.

Ideal candidates will be expected to:

• Lead existing research projects with regards to design, execution, and analysis of data.
• Experience with research and running focus groups.
• Demonstrate ability and desire to develop grantsmanship skills for the preparation of competitive funding proposals.
• Demonstrated experience in community outreach, coalition building, collaborative planning and/or leadership development.
• Knowledge of community organizations—particularly service and/or disability programs.
• Experience in training and facilitation.
• Knowledge of national and community service and/or disability inclusion.

Contact: To apply, please provide a cover letter and curriculum vitae (with three names of references) to Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at [email protected]