Learning Scientist Is an Subject Matter Expert in Literacy

Name: Jeannie Votypka (she/her)

PhD: Literacy Studies, St. John’s University, 2019

What was your main area of research?

My major area of research was reading motivation for elementary students.

What is your current job?

I am a Staff Learning Scientist, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH), and I work remotely.

I am a subject matter expert (SME) in literacy.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love the people I work with.

What is the most important skill you developed or experience you had during your PhD that now helps you in your current position?

Getting a PhD prepares you for high level problem solving.

How did you build the skills necessary for your current role?

My background in teaching qualified me for being an expert in developing teacher tools.

How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?

LinkedIn

PHD graduate ➡️ University Professor ➡️ SME in Literacy

If someone is interested in a similar role, what would you recommend they start doing now to prepare?

Do the qualifying before becoming an expert. This will give you credibility in your field.

Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?

I did originally have a job as a tenure-track professor for 5 years after earning my PhD. I left academia to contribute to the field of literacy in a broader way. Academia felt limiting to me.

What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?

Become an expert in an area that is marketable.