The Governor’s School for Science and Technology (GSST), a premier STEM program serving gifted and high-ability students across multiple school divisions, is seeking a dynamic and knowledgeable instructor to teach Research Methods and Ethics with Statistical Analysis . This foundational course prepares 11th-grade students for their senior-year Capstone Scientific Research Project by equipping them with critical skills in research design, scientific ethics, data analysis, and scholarly writing.
Course Description:
Research Methods and Ethics introduces students to the principles of scientific investigation, research ethics, literature review, hypothesis development, and data collection techniques. Emphasis is placed on real-world applications of statistical analysis , including the use of statistical software and tools such as Excel, SPSS, R, or Python. Students will learn to critically evaluate research studies, develop a research proposal, and understand the IRB process, all in preparation for independent or mentored research in their senior year.

General Statement of Duties:

• Design and deliver engaging, inquiry-based instruction aligned with the goals of the Governor’s School and student research preparation.
• Introduce students to research methodologies across STEM disciplines.
• Teach fundamental statistical concepts and analysis techniques appropriate for high school researchers.
• Integrate instruction in academic writing, literature review, and citation formats (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Facilitate class discussions on ethical considerations in research, including plagiarism, bias, human subjects, and responsible data handling.
• Support students in developing research questions, writing formal proposals, and preparing for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval where applicable.
• Collaborate with the Senior Research Instructor and other faculty to ensure a seamless transition to the senior-year Capstone Research Project.
• Provide ongoing formative feedback and mentorship to students on their emerging research interests.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and communicate regularly with families and stakeholders.

Requirements:

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Research Methods, Statistics, Science Education, or a related STEM field: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, or Math
• Must qualify for a License through the Virginia Department of Education
• Experience in research methods, statistics, or scientific writing.
• Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., Excel, SPSS, R, Python) and data visualization tools.
• Strong background in research ethics.
• Ability to foster curiosity, independence, and critical thinking in students.

• Design and deliver engaging, inquiry-based instruction aligned with the goals of the Governor’s School and student research preparation.
• Introduce students to research methodologies across STEM disciplines.
• Teach fundamental statistical concepts and analysis techniques appropriate for high school researchers.
• Integrate instruction in academic writing, literature review, and citation formats (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Facilitate class discussions on ethical considerations in research, including plagiarism, bias, human subjects, and responsible data handling.
• Support students in developing research questions, writing formal proposals, and preparing for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval where applicable.
• Collaborate with the Senior Research Instructor and other faculty to ensure a seamless transition to the senior-year Capstone Research Project.
• Provide ongoing formative feedback and mentorship to students on their emerging research interests.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and communicate regularly with families and stakeholders