Career Center

Synapse School in Menlo Park, CA, an innovative TK-8 independent school located in the heart of Silicon Valley dedicated to rethinking and reimagining education, seeks a LEARNING SCIENCE SPECIALIST to work closely with both the Synapse Learning Center (LC) and the Brainwave Learning Center (BLC), a research-practice partnership between Synapse and Stanford University. The Learning Science Specialist will serve students from TK-8th grade. Synapse’s mission is to educate a community of change makers by combining social-emotional learning, leading-edge academics, and the practice of innovation. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Synapse School seeks an experienced, full-time Learning Science Specialist to help bridge research and practice in an innovative school setting. The Learning Science Specialist will work closely with both the Director of the BLC and the Director of the LC to bridge and advance the goals of each of the centers. The Learning Science Specialist will be a resource for school staff on learning sciences research, will work with Learning Specialists in the LC to support teachers in implementing research-based practices, and will assist with ongoing research protocols in the BLC. 

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING

• Working closely with the LC and BLC teams, teachers, parents, and outside professionals on behalf of students and children
• Leading and collaborating on Synapse’s Science of Learning and Mind, Brain, Education initiatives
• Planning and implementing programming related to the principles of the Science of Learning, Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience for various audiences (e.g. students, parents, teachers)
• Data analysis and interpretation of various LC assessments; data visualization
• Distilling, summarizing, and/or compiling scientific concepts for broad audiences 

AN IDEAL CANDIDATE WOULD POSSESS THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS

• Undergraduate degree in one of the following fields preferred: Psychology, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, Child/Human Development, Education, Learning Sciences, or similar
• Master’s Degree and/or Graduate Certification in an education-related field preferred, but not required
• Knowledge of the principles of the Science of Learning and ability to implement research-based practices in school settings
• Teaching or school-based experience (formal or informal settings) preferred
• Ability to administer and interpret various neurocognitive assessments and domain-specific tests of achievement; familiarity with learning disorders (i.e., dyscalculia, dyslexia, dysgraphia)
• Familiarity with university research processes and protocols (i.e., IRB protocols)
• Ability to effectively communicate, work flexibly and collaboratively in cross-functional teams

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS

$92,700 to $108,500

Synapse offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, and retirement, as well as additional lifestyle perks. Housing stipends available to those who qualify.

APPLICATION PROCESS 

Applicants should email a cover letter of interest, three names of references with contact information, and a CV or résumé to Dr. Liz Toomarian, Director of the Brainwave Learning Center  (liz.toomarian@synapseschool.org). Include ‘Learning Science Specialist’ in the subject of your email. This position is open until filled.

Synapse School does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, and familial affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. 

About Synapse School

An independent school in Menlo Park, California, Synapse, a Lab school of Six Seconds, educates change makers by combining social-emotional learning, leading-edge academics, and the practice of innovation. We have an unwavering belief in the capacity of children, and our teachers work alongside our students to unlock their powers of curiosity, discovery, and creativity. Synapse’s program provides a deep and unique range of integrated academic, social, and creative experiences to help children use their hearts and hands to unleash their passion for learning. Synapse draws students from around the San Francisco Bay Area.

Connections working at Synapse School