Erikson Institute, one of the nation’s premier graduate schools in child development, invites applications for two tenure-track assistant professor positions to contribute significantly to our doctoral (PhD) program in child and family studies, and either or both of our master of science programs in early intervention (MSECE-EI) and child development (MSCD). The positions will begin in mid-August 2027.

We are seeking applicants with a PhD in child development, human development and family studies, developmental psychology, educational psychology, or a related field. Applicants should be prepared to advise doctoral students utilizing multivariate statistics and mixed methods in their dissertations. For candidates entering at the advanced assistant professor level, prior academic experience may be applied towards the tenure review timeline and negotiated at the time of appointment. All faculty applicants at Erikson are required to demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their scholarship and teaching, and describe their plans for using their work to advance justice in the lives of children and families, and in Erikson’s community of students and staff.

One position is reserved for someone with specific expertise in the birth to three age-range, including but not limited to topics such as infant-toddler development and disabilities, infant and early childhood mental health, infant-caregiver relationships, and early intervention programs, processes, and outcomes. The second position is open with respect to child or youth age-range and topic of specialization, but particular areas of interest include adversity and trauma, neurodivergence, social determinants of health and development, family support and parenting, child and family policy analysis, child life, developmental trajectories for children with medical challenges, program evaluation (e.g., home visiting, doula programs, preschool for all or Head Start programs, child abuse prevention programs), developmental neuro/science approaches to whole-child teaching and learning, and children's media and digital health. Both positions will prioritize candidates with significant experience researching child and youth outcomes using primarily quantitative methods and who can quickly engage graduate students in collaborative projects and data collection.

Responsibilities of tenure track faculty include teaching graduate courses (on campus and online; generally 2 and 2); advising master’s and doctoral students; developing an active program of funded research with publications; service to the Institute and to the field; and contributing expertise to the Institute’s mission and initiatives. Additional resources are available to protect faculty time and support them in their professional goals and wellbeing.

Applications received by October 26, 2026 are guaranteed full consideration but may be reviewed through the fall. We expect to conduct interviews in November and invite finalists for job talks in December.

a cover letter of application;a statement of professional interests and goals related to research, teaching, and DEI;1-2 representative publications;CV;names of three references who can speak to the quality of research and teaching.

Questions may be sent to: Faculty Assistant Michelle Smith, msmith@erikson.edu

Erikson is open to individual candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. Candidates should apply whether or not they feel that they meet all the requirements or qualifications for the position. We are looking forward to having exciting conversations with engaging candidates and will welcome your application.

About Erikson Institute

We are the premier early childhood development organization committed to ensuring that all children have equitable opportunities to realize their potential.

Erikson Institute’s graduate school uniquely prepares child development, education, and social work leaders to improve the lives of young children and their families. Our impact and influence are further amplified through our innovative academic programs, applied research, direct services in the community, advocacy, policy and leadership.

Erikson Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, family responsibilities, or any other classes protected by federal, state, or local laws. In addition, Erikson Institute provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process).