Project TRANSLATE

What is this program?

The purpose of Project TRANSLATE is to prepare the next generation of scholars with expertise in reading education (including reading disabilities) who will secure faculty positions in institutions of higher education to effectively prepare future teachers, conduct research, and provide service, leadership, and translation within the field of reading education.

What specific activities will I be doing as part of the program?

As a scholar in this program, you will have high quality opportunities to engage in coursework, research, teaching, and leadership/service. Coursework is designed to build knowledge and skills in advanced topics in reading research and theory; research design and statistical methods; and manuscript and grant writing. Research opportunities include attending conferences, participating in high impact research projects at FCRR, engaging in independent research, disseminating research findings, and applying for external funding. Teaching opportunities include training in how to instruct in higher education, co-teaching experiences, and independent teaching experiences. Leadership and service activities will help you to begin to engage in a larger community of scholars and with local community partners. For example, you will obtain membership to professional organizations of your choice (e.g., International Dyslexia Association, Society for the Scientific Study of Reading). Leadership training activities are integrated into the program, such as serving as an apprentice at FCRR or participating in activities through the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity. You will also serve local community partners through The Village at FCRR, with an opportunity to develop and deliver professional development.

What are the kinds of research projects that faculty are working on?

Here is a sampling (not exhaustive) of research projects that you could be a part of: • Learning Disabilities Translational Science Collective  

• Project Flex
• Project Wordy  
• Variable Vowel Collaborative Learning Disabilities Innovation Hub
• Core Knowledge Language Arts Read Aloud Efficacy Study
• Teaching Together Efficacy Study
• Regional Education Lab—Southeast
• Project VOICES
• Reach Every Reader

Most of these large research projects are funded by the U.S. Department of Education, National Institutes of Health, or private foundations. You can find out more information about these on our website: https://fcrr.org/projects.

What degree will I receive? 

Upon completion of the program, scholars will receive a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a major in Reading Education or Special Education. This program is housed in the School of Teacher Education within the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences at Florida State University. 

Can I complete the degree online or part time? Can I work full time while participating in the program?

This program is designed to be a rigorous, immersive experience with the goal of training you to be a highly qualified researcher. Therefore, it requires a full-time commitment for 4 years, with physical residency at Florida State University. No online options are available. While some students obtain contract work to supplement their income, this must be approved, and the expectation is that the research training will be the focus of your work for the duration of the program.

What are the minimum requirements?

We require prior P-12 teaching or clinical experience teaching struggling readers or students with reading, learning, or language-based disabilities. Ideal candidates may have previously worked as classroom or special education teachers, reading or instructional coaches, or speech- language pathologists. Prior certification, training, or expertise in reading or special education is preferred.

A commitment to the following will also be expected:

• A commitment to begin the doctoral program in August 2025
• A commitment to study full-time on campus for the duration of the training program
• A commitment to attain a faculty position in a university post-graduation

Do I have to be from Florida to apply?

No, we are looking for the most highly qualified candidates for this prestigious program and have out of state tuition included in our funding. 

What is the annual funding package?

The annual funding package includes the following:

• $34,000 stipend
• $12,000 for tuition and health insurance
• $3,000 Allowance for textbooks, supplies, and conference travel
• Funds for a computer  

How many students are you admitting?

Funding is available for only 5 students, who will begin in Fall 2025.

When should I apply?

Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2024, and will continue until all five fellowships are awarded. Candidates are encouraged to submit complete applications by this deadline. Please contact Veronica Houck at vhouck@fsu.edu for any assistance with application. Please let Catie Goodman (cgoodman@fcrr.org) and Dr. Sonia Cabell (scabell@fsu.edu) know that you have applied so we can be on the lookout for your application.

What other information should I know?

We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply, including individuals from race-, ethnic-, and cultural-minority groups, first-generation graduate students, and individuals with disabilities.