Postdoctoral Research Scientist

The Columbia University, Robert N Butler Columbia Aging Center is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Scientist to support in growing its research program in cognitive aging, global health, and demography of aging, under the supervision of Dr. Yuan Zhang.

This position involves using data from the Health and Retirement Study international family studies, including the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP) to conduct research to better understand how aging in different contexts can lead to different cognitive aging trajectories and dementia-related outcomes for individuals and populations, and identify effective strategies that can delay cognitive decline, and reduce dementia risk in diverse populations across different sociocultural and economic contexts. The postdoctoral research scientist will lead intellectual inquiry and project scopes, conduct literature reviews, organize data, conduct statistical analysis and ensure the research being produced is reproducible, present research at national and international conferences, and write academic publications as a lead author and/or coauthor. They may also participate in relevant training opportunities and writing grants and reports.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop empirical strategies to implement a research agenda (cleaning and summarizing data, estimating models)
• Prepare scientific manuscripts as lead and co-authors

• Work with the principal investigator, student researchers, and other collaborators to develop and execute clear, well-documented research projects and manuscripts
• Assist or develop grant proposals, including performing literature reviews and conducting preliminary analysis
• Assist with research related administrative tasks including IRBs and progress reports
• Take initiative to acquire new statistical and/or programming skills as needed
• The successful applicant will be expected to and supported to develop their own independent line of research in this topic area

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD, ScD or DrPH in social sciences or public health, including gerontology, epidemiology, public policy or related field

• Strong quantitative background and programming skills (R, STATA, Python, or SAS)

• Excellent verbal/written communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Significant research experience evidenced by peer-reviewed publications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Expertise in data analysis of complex survey samples
• Experience and expertise in integrating biological and social sciences research

• This position provides a competitive salary, a stipend for professional travel and research expenses. Columbia University benefits are offered with this appointment
• Subject to business needs, we may support flexible and hybrid work arrangements; Options will be discussed during the interview process
• Appointments will be for 1-year, with continuation pending funding and progress
• The search will remain open for at least 30 days after the ad appears and will continue until the position is filled
• Projected start date will be ASAP, position will be open until filled

How to apply:

Applicants should submit the following materials:

1) Curriculum Vitae

2) A statement of research interests, relevant experience, and career goals. Please indicate one or two research questions you might be interested in pursuing.

3) A writing sample.

Letters of recommendation will be requested if shortlisted.