Postdoctoral Scholar or Advanced Graduate Student (ABD) Research Position at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL

We are recruiting for a postdoctoral scholar to begin in October, 2013.  An advanced graduate student who has completed all coursework and is available for full-time research employment will also be considered. 

Project Description: This NIMH-funded project study seeks to develop and implement a novel text messaging-based HIV prevention program, designed specifically for adolescent gay and bisexual males.  The scholar will be responsible for: a) managing IRB protocols at Northwestern University; b) recruiting participants into qualitative focus groups, facilitating focus groups, and analyzing mixed-methods data; c) collaborating on the design and beta testing of the intervention; d) assisting with the pilot randomized controlled trial; and e) participating in the dissemination of project findings.  Dr.  Mustanski, Director of the IMPACT Program, will serve as the primary mentor with opportunities for collaboration with the broader investigative team, including Dr.  Michele Ybarra, President of the Center for Innovative Public Health Research.

The Scholar will join the IMPACT Program which is based in the Department of Medical Social Sciences in the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.   The mission of the IMPACT Program is to conduct translational research that improves the health of the LGBT community and to develop the clinical research capacity of the community.   It was founded by Dr.  Mustanski in 2008 and has been the home to many federal- and foundation-funded research projects.   The Program’s multidisciplinary team includes 5 doctoral-level scientists, multiple masters’ level staff, a team of research assistants and data managers, and a full-time program coordinator for administrative support.

The Department of Medical Social Sciences provides a unique home for applied researchers who integrate biomedical and social science approaches to improvement of health.   Its defining features are an emphasis on interdisciplinary research and a strongly collaborative orientation.  The department provides rich resources for conducting research, including a broad scientific portfolio with multiple, well-characterized cohorts across the lifespan, psychometric/biostatistical and health informatics cores, expertise in multi-level assessment methods and collaborative relationships across Northwestern’s biomedical and social sciences campuses.   

Eligibility: Completion of the doctorate prior to the start of the position is required for postdoctoral scholars.   Completion of all coursework is required for advanced graduate student applicants.   The candidate will have or be pursuing a doctorate in the social/behavioral/health sciences, academic interests in HIV prevention, LGBT health, and/or health communications, and strong qualitative research skills.

To apply:  Postdoctoral applicants should email application materials (including a CV, two letters of recommendation, and cover letter explaining research experience and career goals relevant to the position to Dr.  Mustanski c/o Robin Morrissey (r-morrissey@northwestern.edu).   Advanced graduate student applicants should apply through the Northwestern University Human Resources website at http://www.northwestern.edu/hr/jobs.   Search for the “Research Study Coordinator” position which is expected to post the week of 8/26/13.   Consideration of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.   Northwestern University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.   Applications from women and minorities are encouraged.