Kendrick Buford

Background

About Kendrick Buford

Dr. Kendrick D. Buford is a doctoral-level research scientist and educational methodologist specializing in mixed-methods evaluation of STEM education interventions. Currently serving as Associate Teaching Instructor at the University of Southern Mississippi, he leads the graduate research methodology sequence while directing comprehensive evaluation frameworks for federally-funded educational research projects.His research portfolio encompasses over $4.1 million in awarded grants from agencies including the National Science Foundation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and National Academies' Gulf Research Program, with pending proposals exceeding $20.6 million. As Measurement Lead for large-scale STEM education initiatives, Dr. Buford designs quasi-experimental evaluation frameworks, develops psychometrically validated assessment instruments, and conducts sophisticated statistical analyses using advanced procedures in IBM SPSS and R. His methodological expertise spans quantitative analysis (ANOVA, ANCOVA, regression modeling), qualitative inquiry (systematic discourse coding, thematic analysis), and rigorous mixed-methods integration aligned with IES What Works Clearinghouse standards.Beyond research leadership, Dr. Buford serves as Academic Integrity Director and Master's Program Coordinator for the Center for STEM Education, positions requiring systematic policy development and data-driven program evaluation. He has guided 11 doctoral candidates through dissertation completion and maintains consulting relationships with educational technology organizations, museums, and school districts across multiple states.His scholarly interests center on equity in STEM education, technology-based learning assessment, and environmental education program evaluation. Dr. Buford serves as Regional Director for the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, coordinating research experiences across a seven-state implementation region, and provides evaluation expertise for the Mississippi Science and Engineering Fair.Dr. Buford holds a Ph.D. in Science Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and a B.S. in Biology (Magna Cum Laude) from Alcorn State University. His peer-reviewed publication appears in jMechanisms of Development, and he has delivered 21 professional presentations at national and regional research conferences.Available for research collaboration, external evaluation consulting, and educational program assessment across STEM disciplines.