Sinclair Receives Distinguished Early Career Research Award

College of Education and Health Professions faculty member James Sinclair was recently recognized with the Council for Exceptional Children Division for Research's Martin J. Kaufman Distinguished Early Career Research Award.

Sinclair, an assistant professor of special education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, received the research award for his outstanding early-career scientific contributions in special education. He accepted it during the organization's 2026 convention in Salt Lake City.

"It is such an honor to receive this award," Sinclair said. "I feel so fortunate to be part of a group of exceptional special education researchers that have received this award before me."

Nominations for the Distinguished Early Career Research Award must outline a nominee's critical research findings, influence in the field and mentorship of students, among other things. Sinclair was nominated by fellow special education faculty members Suzanne Kucharczyk, head of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and associate professor of special education, and Sheida Raley, assistant professor of special education.

"Dr. Sinclair has established himself as an extraordinary early-career scholar whose research exemplifies the very essence of this award," they wrote.

In their nomination letter, Raley and Kucharczyk outlined Sinclair's research accomplishments and impacts on practice and policy. The two nominators also stressed the influence Sinclair's research has had on people's livelihoods and well-being.

"His work has already improved lives by enabling students in school settings to access mental health supports, educators to implement inclusive practices, and researchers to study systems that promote dignity and belonging," Raley and Kucharczyk said. "His influence on special education extends beyond research to shape teacher preparation, leadership development, and public understanding of disability."

Sinclair said he was appreciative of Raley and Kucharczyk for their efforts in nominating him.

"There is no way I would be where I am today without the support of my Ph.D. advisors at the University of Oregon, mentors, collaborators, and colleagues," he said. "They lift me up, encourage me, and support my research in so many ways."

In his early-career years, Sinclair has published over 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts and four book chapters. He serves on multiple high-impact journal editorial boards and has received over $11 million in federal funding for projects in which he has served as principal, co-principal or co-investigator.

Sinclair's research focuses on exploring the transition to adulthood for youth and young adults with disabilities. His work in the area of transition has centered on identifying practices that support positive post-school outcomes, such as competitive and integrated employment, access to postsecondary education settings and community participation.

He strives to understand the intersection of disability and mental health and how that impacts students' academic, behavioral and future outcomes.