Staff Scientist Epidemiology Branch (EB)
Division of Population Health Research (DiPHR)
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

The Division of Population Health Research (DiPHR) at NICHD within NIH is seeking to recruit an outstanding staff scientist in the Epidemiology Branch (EB). The branch conducts investigator-initiated and collaborative original epidemiologic research studies focusing on reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric health endpoints to identify etiologic mechanisms, at-risk subgroups, and interventions aimed at maximizing health and preventing, diagnosing, and/or treating disease. EB staff scientists make high-level contributions to the branch’s active research programs, develop and implement study protocols, assist in developing relevant etiological hypotheses, prepare analytic plans and institutional review board packages necessary for successful study completion, as well as prepare scientific papers and other related work as required. In addition, staff scientists mentor trainees and provide professional and contracting services.
 

This staff scientist position will require advanced epidemiology knowledge and skills to function independently, leading statistical analysis of longitudinal cohort studies under the general direction of a senior investigator and as part of a research team. Qualifications include an earned doctorate in epidemiology or a closely related field (e.g., maternal and child health, public health, psychology) and additional years of postdoctoral experience relevant to the position. Preferred candidates will have excellent communication skills (both oral and written), strong quantitative skills, including statistical methods commonly used in epidemiology (e.g., longitudinal data analysis, hierarchical modeling), and experience in mentoring. Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated research interests in the areas of perinatal epidemiology, maternal and child health disparities, and the early origins of health, as evidenced by training, work experience, and publications in peer-reviewed journals. Experience with genomics and epigenomics research is advantageous but not required.

 

The successful applicant will work on a newly developed research program led by EB Branch Chief Dr. Bizu Gelaye. The research areas will focus on:

·         Understanding the role preconception and perinatal psychosocial exposures (e.g., trauma exposure) play in shaping short- and long-term maternal and offspring health outcomes

·         Studying how biological, molecular, environmental, social, and structural factors impact preterm birth, particularly among racial and ethnic groups

·         Identifying evidence-based solutions that promote health equity and improve outcomes in maternal and child health through prevention, early diagnostics, therapeutics, and/or policy change

Questions about the position can be addressed to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Yvette Pittman (yvette.pittman@nih.gov). To apply, email a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief summary of research interests and experiences (up to 2 pages), one sample publication, a mentoring philosophy statement (up to 1 page), a diversity and inclusion statement (up to 1 page), and the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Pittman. Review of applications will begin on October 15, 2024, and continue until the position is filled.