Postdoctoral Researcher, K12 Literacy Assessment and Instruction

Capti; Germany (OH); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative literacy solutions company is seeking a researcher to lead projects on literacy assessment and instructional interventions. This role requires a Ph.D. in a relevant field and expertise in research methodologies. The ideal candidate will drive data-driven literacy improvements and collaborate with a dedicated team. Remote work is possible from anywhere in the U.S. with flexible scheduling and unlimited PTO.

Benefits

Flexible scheduling

Unlimited PTO

Support for professional growth

401(k) plans

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of research design and methodology, including experimental and quasi-experimental designs.
• Demonstrated experience with IRB processes and compliance.
• Expertise in literacy assessment, measurement, and instructional research.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects related to literacy assessment.
• Design and implement studies to validate assessments and measure instructional impact.
• Publish research findings and present at conferences.

Skills

Research design and methodology

Excellent written and verbal communication

Independent project leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Reading, Literacy, Educational Psychology, or closely related field

Tools

R

Python

SPSS

SAS

Job description

At Capti, our mission is to transform literacy solutions and empower students to reach their full potential. We combine innovative literacy technology with expert professional learning to improve reading outcomes nationwide. Our flagship product, ReadBasix, is a validated foundational reading platform that quickly and reliably identifies the root causes of secondary students’ reading difficulties—including characteristics of dyslexia—and provides actionable data to guide instruction. Our experienced Literacy Team partners with educators to interpret assessment data, optimize curricula and interventions, and deliver targeted, research-based professional development. Capti is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) into literacy research, leveraging these technologies to improve assessments and inform data-driven interventions. To learn more, please visit capti.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects related to literacy assessment, instruction, and intervention, including AI- and NLP-driven studies.
• Design and implement studies to validate assessments, measure instructional impact, and contribute to large-scale literacy initiatives.
• Prepare and manage IRB submissions, ensuring full compliance with ethical research standards.
• Conduct advanced quantitative and computational data analyses (e.g., regression, multilevel modeling, IRT, SEM) using tools such as R, Python, SPSS, or SAS.
• Develop research reports, technical manuals, and presentations for internal teams, educators, and policymakers.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and contribute to the broader academic literature.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to a culture of innovation and inquiry.
• Collaborate with product and professional learning teams to translate research into actionable product enhancements and training strategies.
• Contribute to grant proposals and research initiatives to support sustained funding and program evaluation.

Benefits and Perks

• Shape the future of literacy assessment and professional learning on a national scale.
• Collaborate with a passionate, interdisciplinary team of educators, researchers, and computer scientists.
• Work on projects with direct impact on students, teachers, and school systems.
• Remote work remotely from anywhere in the United States with flexible scheduling and unlimited PTO (within reason).
• Opportunities for professional growth in a fast-paced ed-tech startup environment.
• Support for conference attendance, publication, and career development.
• Traditional and Roth 401(k).

Please submit:

• A cover letter describing your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the required and preferred qualifications.
• A curriculum vitae (CV).
• Contact information for three professional references.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Reading, Literacy, Educational Psychology, or a closely related field.
• Strong knowledge of research design and methodology, including experimental and quasi-experimental designs.
• Demonstrated experience with IRB processes and compliance.
• Expertise in literacy assessment, measurement, and instructional research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex findings clearly.
• A track record of independent, self-directed work, with the ability to take initiative and lead projects from conception to completion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Classroom teaching experience or direct experience working in K–12 settings.
• Experience with scenario-based or performance-based assessments.
• Involvement with research that utilized AI/NLP in educational contexts.
• Advanced skills in statistical analysis; proficiency with R, SPSS, SAS, Python, or similar software.
• Participation in large-scale literacy initiatives or multi-site research projects.
• Ability to bridge research and practice, supporting educators and leaders in implementing data-driven literacy solutions.
• Familiarity with MTSS frameworks and evidence-based literacy interventions.
• Strong publication record and experience contributing to grant proposals and applications in response to RFPs.

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for a researcher who:

• Proactively identifies research needs and develops plans to address them.
• Thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment while working independently.
• Brings a deep commitment to improving literacy outcomes for students through rigorous, applied research.
• Enjoys working at the intersection of research, technology, and practice, including AI and NLP applications.