Institution

University of Pittsburgh

Job Title

Non-Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Data Stewardship

Dates

Opening Date: 01/04/2017
Closing Date: 02/15/2017

Job Description

The School of Computing and Information (http://www.ischool.pitt.edu) at the University of Pittsburgh is seeking to fill a faculty position in Data Stewardship at an Assistant/Associate Professor level – Position #134534 (Non-Tenure Stream). The initial appointment is expected to be three years with consideration for renewal. Anticipated start date is August 1, 2017. We are looking for an experienced practitioner and scholar in Data Stewardship who can demonstrate an in-depth understanding of data curation, data documentation and data preservation, specifically:

  • Current best practices and policy surrounding active data management through the data lifecycle, including data collection, data management plans, data storage, data quality and reproducibility
  • Experience of handling research data including application of data standards and formats, data description and documentation, metadata schema for disciplinary data, data citation and persistent identifiers, data publication, data analysis, data visualization, data re-use and metrics
  • Contemporary good practice in data selection and appraisal, data infrastructure including data repository software platforms, and long-term data preservation strategies
  • An awareness of diverse disciplinary data practices, research workflows and workflow platforms, as well as an in-depth knowledge of particular domain(s).
The University of Pittsburgh School is a top-ranked information school (iSchool) offering a wide variety of multidisciplinary opportunities, including an undergraduate program (BSIS), Master’s programs in information science (MSIS), telecommunications & networking (MST), library & information science (MLIS), and Ph.D. programs. The new Data Stewardship Pathway for graduate students studying for the MLIS, draws on the concept of “translational data science”, described by Lyon & Brenner (2015) as: “the enhanced transition of skills, software tools and intelligence from the iSchool to the marketplace, which may be interpreted as industry, government, libraries, archives or data centers”. Adopting a translational perspective will enable iSchools to supply and deploy data talent and data products more rapidly to the range of consumers, where there is currently an acknowledged workforce need”. Development of the Data Stewardship Pathway has been further informed by the results of two small-scale studies, which featured an analysis of requirements for real-world positions in each of the six data science roles (data archivist, data librarian, data steward / curator, data analyst, data engineer and data journalist) and which highlighted the knowledge, skills and competencies being sought by employers (Lyon, Mattern, Acker & Langmead 2016; Lyon & Mattern 2016). We expect candidates for this position to possess strong experience within the broader data community or in professional data curation environments and to have excellent interpersonal, communication and team skills. The new faculty member is expected to be able to liaise and collaborate with disciplinary faculty and researchers across a range of Schools and Departments in the University, but also with the regional, national and international data community. The University is actively addressing the development and adoption of research data management infrastructure, working through the Data Management Committee and administration support services on campus. The successful candidate will contribute to the Data Stewardship Pathway through both research and teaching undergrad and post-graduate students, and will be expected to demonstrate an awareness of current data developments, trends, challenges, emerging fields and a positive commitment to research. As the School offers an online degree program in addition to on-campus programs, candidates with complementary expertise and experience in educational technologies are encouraged to apply. Candidates applying for the position(s) are expected to hold an earned Doctorate or the equivalent in academic or professional experience. Questions about the position should be directed to: Dr. Richard Cox Chair of Search Committee School of Computing and Information University of Pittsburgh Further information regarding the School and this position can be found at http://www.ischool.pitt.edu/news/facultyopenings.php Pittsburgh’s industrial past has given way to an enterprising and vibrant present. Affordable living, world-class universities, distinctive neighborhoods, growing industries, and an abundance of leisure activities create a quality of life in Pittsburgh that is virtually unmatched. Pittsburgh is consistently ranked in Rand McNally's Top Ten Most Livable Cities in North America. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Vets/Disabled.

 

How to Apply

Applicants should present a record of effective teaching, research, and related scholarly activities. Electronic applications should be sent to https://ischoolatpitt.wufoo.com/forms/faculty-position-in-data-stewardship/. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching statement, and the names, addresses (with e-mail), and telephone numbers of three references. For full consideration, applications must be received by February 15, 2017.

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