The Center for Health Equity Research at Northern Arizona University seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar to be part of a dynamic applied health equity research team. We are most interested in candidates with a Public Health background in one of the following areas: health economics, epidemiology, health communications, or health services research. The Center for Health Equity Research works primarily with historically underserved populations to address health disparities in the areas of maternal and child health, oral health, chronic disease prevention, environmental health, substance abuse, and behavioral health. The research group—and NAU—are uniquely positioned to engage in meaningful research on the social determinants of health. NAU is located in close proximity to numerous American Indian and other minority and rural communities, and long-standing relationships with these communities is already in place. The research group collaborates across numerous departments and programs at NAU, and has developed strong formal and informal relationships with key health providers in the region.
The successful candidate will be required to design and carry out qualitative and/or quantitative research studies, collect and code data, and analyze data using such programs as NVivo, SPSS and/or SAS. This person will assist the Director of the research group, our team, and our collaborating researchers with the following tasks:
- Assist in planning and designing research studies focused on health equity research.
- Write and edit major sections of grant proposals submitted by the research group, including the background and significance, innovation, research methods, human subjects, timetables, budgets, etc.
- Assist in data collection, data processing, and analysis of data collected for research projects of the research group.
- Assist with preparation of grant reports; write technical publications and reports.
- Present project results to internal and external parties.
- Engage in fieldwork.
- Produce peer-reviewed publications, white papers, and conference abstracts and presentations.
- Effectively use available technology to facilitate the success of the research group and its associated research projects.
- Liaison with other NAU departments, outside collaborators, and others to ensure success of research group and associated research projects.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Public health background in one of the following areas: health economics, epidemiology, health communications, or health services research
- Experience and knowledge of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.
- Record of publications on which you are a lead author or co-author, illustrating experience with health equity research.
- Experience conducting strategic planning and evaluation of community-based research.
- Familiarity with grant-writing process.
- Experience disseminating research results to diverse audiences, including community groups, academic partners, and national and international professional forums.
- Experience conducting field research in historically underserved communities.
- Experience working with a grant-funded research group in an academic setting.
- Awareness of and commitment to NAU’s EEO/Affirmative Action Plan and Safe Working and Learning Environment goals.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of the principles and techniques of applied public health research.
- Organizational and project management skills.
- Skill in leading, coordinating, and/or supervising the work of others.
- Ability to work effectively with people from a variety of culturally diverse backgrounds.
- Proficiency in spoken and written Spanish, or other regionally important language, is desirable.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
Requires a PhD in public health or related field by the time of appointment.
SUMMARY:
This position has identified funding for one year. Continued employment after that time period is dependent on funding, satisfactory performance, and departmental need.
A single combined PDF file including CV, statement of vision for research in health equity, and names and contact information for three references must be attached to the application. Applications must be submitted at www.nau.edu/hr; reference Vacancy Number 602811. Direct link to vacancy here.