Want to work with us?
OPALS Lab is looking for graduate students who are interested in questions around STEM teaching and learning, place and space, and/or data and AI. Here's what to know before you reach out.
- You are curious about how spatial relationships (physical, geographic, etc.) shape teaching and learning.
- You are interested in formal or informal teacher teacher learning opportunities, particularly in STEM.
- You would like to learn more about how data science and AI can be methodological tools to investigate the complexities of teaching and learning
- You are passionate about expanding robust STEM learning opportunities into rural and other geographic communities.
What you'll find here.
Ownership of ideas with structured mentoring
Every Ph.D. student completes an annual Individual Development Plan with their advisor — a real conversation about goals, skills, and support, not a formality. You shape what you want out of the doctoral experience and have support in seeing your plans and ideas through.
Room to grow your own questions and space to think deeply
You will contribute to ongoing lab projects and be supported in developing research questions of your own. This includes valuing deep conversations and opportunities to develop ideas as a component of high-quality research processes.
A collaborative lab culture
Plan on regular lab meetings, an open door, and a welcoming environment. OPALS lab is collaborative not competitive. Our research is a shared journey, honoring the varied expertise, ideas, and contributions that are key to team science.
Get in touch.
Dr. Boles is currently accepting students for the:
- M.S. in Computing, AI, and Data in Education (CADE)
- Ph.D. in Teacher Education
- Ph.D. in Learning, Design, and Technology (LDT)
The first step is simple — reach out to Dr. Boles with a short note about your research interests and your CV/resume.
Contact Dr. Boles →