Behavioral Scientists Jobs at the University of Michigan

The Office of Academic Innovation at the University of Michigan is seeking motivated, zestful, enthusiastic, and high caliber Behavioral Scientists to study and improvise behavior change strategies and online communication to AI’s software tools and online learning experiences. The position holder will report to the Associate Director of Behavioral Science and works with teams of software developers, user experience designers, learning experience designers, faculty and student innovators, as well as other academic, technology, and administrative staff at the University.

The Behavioral Scientist will develop interventions to motivate behavior change among people who use AI’s tools. This might include writing computer-tailored emails, text messages, and intervention content aimed at UM learners; developing and testing behavioral nudges; strategizing with UX designers about features, page layouts, and UI language; strategizing with software teams about new features; and piloting research projects in online learning experiences (e.g., MOOCs)

Roles and responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the behavioral science team, software developers, UX designers, product managers, innovation advocates, faculty, and students to enhance the behavioral impact of AI tools and communications
•  Design, develop, and test behavioral interventions within the framework of AI online learning and residential tools in an agile, iterative manner including feature scoping, content writing, and evaluation planning
• Interact with various stakeholders as needed, including AI analytics and research teams, end users, and technology partners
• Consult with UM students, faculty, and staff to inform new solutions and approaches
• Employ a pragmatic approach which appreciates the trade-off between a perfect solution and a working solution
• Work with and mentor student fellows assisting with various aspects of online learning and behavioral science

Required qualifications

• Master’s Degree in a field related to behavioral science
• Demonstrated ability to apply the principles of social science, psychology, communication, marketing, and user research to innovative behavior change interventions
• Experience implementing all stages of intervention design (definition of goals, theoretical grounding, design, construction, testing, delivery, impact research, and reporting)
• Experience applying survey and interview methodologies of user experience to design behavioral interventions.
•  Excellent verbal and visual communication skills
• Ability to work well in a multicultural and collaborative environment; to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
•  Comfortable in a fast-paced and demanding digital environment; organized and able to keep multiple projects and details straight
•  Collaborative, a problem solver, flexible, motivated, and energetic