Research Scientist, School of Public Health, Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management - Boston University

AResearch Scientist is an individual who contributes to the research programs of the University under supervision of a Principal Investigator, and holds a post-graduate degree appropriate to the field of research, or an equivalent combination of education and advanced research experience as appropriate to the field of expertise.

The Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management at Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) is seeking a Research Scientist to support project research and management activities focused on policy evaluations related to chronic disease risk factors, such as nutrition and tobacco use. The candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Justin White.

The Research Scientist will support research activities on several research projects, such as an NIH-funded evaluation of the nation’s first healthy checkout policy, an evaluation of cigarette taxation on tobacco use, and an evaluation of changes to SNAP and other safety net policies on health outcomes. The incumbent will help with analyzing large data sets to examine the effects of social, economic, and health policies on various health behaviors and outcomes, in collaboration with multidisciplinary research teams made up of health economists, epidemiologists, nutrition researchers, and others. This position requires the ability to independently conduct analytic work using the statistical programs Stata or R, and requires expertise with econometric and/or biostatistical techniques. This work involves cleaning and organizing large data sets, conducting regression analyses, and creating tables and reports describing the results. The incumbent will work with a variety of data sets, including administrative data, survey data, and retail sales data.

Essential functions:

• Statistical programming and analytic data set creation (40%)
• Implementing statistical analyses (25%)
• Contributing to manuscript writing, grant writing, and preparation of presentations (20%)
• Supporting project coordination activities (10%)
• Participating in other research and professional development activities that otherwise advances the candidate’s career (5%)

• Doctoral degree (PhD, DrPH, or equivalent) in economics, health policy, data science, sociology, public policy, epidemiology, or a related field
• Familiarity with the statistical software programs Stata or R
• Formal training or hands-on experience with quasi-experimental techniques such as difference-in-differences analysis
• Experience using large data sets (e.g., administrative, survey, retail scanner)
• Highly organized and detail oriented
• Self-motivated and able to work well independently, while also working well with teams
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and efficiently manage time

Candidates from historically excluded or marginalized groups are especially encouraged to apply.

There is currently 2 years of grant funding for this position, with the possibility that additional funding will become available.

Position is located in Boston, MA, with a flexible hybrid in-person and remote work schedule.

To apply: Please submit a (1) cover letter and (2) CV to juswhite@bu.edu. All applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Position is availability immediately.

Please do not apply through the Boston University Careers website.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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