Senior Research Scientist

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States

Updated: 3 months ago
Location: Chapel Hill, NORTH CAROLINA
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 08 Feb 2024

Posting Information
Posting Information


Department Biostatistics-462001
Career Area Research Professionals
Posting Open Date 01/11/2024
Application Deadline 02/08/2024
Open Until Filled No
Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)
Working Title Senior Research Scientist
Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty
Position Number 20061228
Vacancy ID NF0007712
Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent
FTE 1
Hours per week 40
Position Location North Carolina, US
Hiring Range $82,100 - $114,480
Proposed Start Date 05/15/2024

Position Information


Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities . Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package , paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Department of Biostatistics (BIOS) is internationally recognized as a leader in Biostatistics research and training. It is one of eight departments in the Gillings School of Global Public Health whose mission is to improve public health, promote individual well-being and eliminate health inequities across North Carolina and around the world. This mission is accomplished through an outstanding program of collaborative teaching, research and service. The Department of Biostatistics is one of the largest, most complex departments at UNC, receiving over $35 million in research funding in 2022. Currently BIOS includes approximately 290 students (90 undergraduate, 200 graduate), 100 permanent staff members, and 40 faculty members (30 with primary appointments in BIOS), as well as an additional 20 adjunct faculty members. The Department of Biostatistics is housed in three different locations: administrative and faculty offices, including a suite of offices for graduate students, in McGavran-Greenberg Hall; the Collaborative Studies Coordinating Center at Carolina Square; and the Carolina Survey Research Laboratory at Bolin Creek Center.
Position Summary
The Senior Research Scientist in the UNC Center for AIDS Research (CFAR) Biostatistics Core will consult and collaborate with multiple HIV/AIDS researchers by providing statistical and data analysis expertise. The Senior Research Scientist will assist CFAR investigators in designing studies, performing sample size calculations, writing grant proposals, managing data, conducting statistical analyses, and writing manuscripts. The Senior Research Scientist may also be involved in statistical methods research motivated by HIV/AIDS studies and will assist in the supervision and work of undergraduate interns and graduate research assistants. The Senior Research Scientist will also assist in operational aspects of the Biostatistics Core, such as communicating with CFAR investigators and preparation of annual progress reports and advisory board meeting presentations.
The Senior Research Scientist must have experience using and be capable of advising others on the use of commonly applied advanced statistical methods. Examples include using generalized linear models, generalized estimating equations, and performing sample size calculations. Other valuable expertise includes proficiency in implementing missing data methods, resampling methods, and non-parametric statistical methods. In addition to having substantial expertise applying statistical methods, the Senior Research Scientist must also have interest and proficiency working in a team-based environment, mentoring undergraduate and graduate biostatistics students, performing statistical programming using software such as SAS and/or R, and using best practices for statistical analyses to ensure high-quality, reproducible research findings.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
This position requires a master’s degree in biostatistics, statistics, computer science, data science, or a comparable field. A doctoral degree in one of these fields is preferred. A minimum of two years of relevant prior work experience are required.
- At least two years of experience working in applied biostatistical research is required. 
- In-depth knowledge of biostatistics, statistical programming, and data management, with the expertise to develop, understand, apply, and train other staff and students on the use of advanced statistical methods.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
- Effective team leadership, mentoring, and training skills. 
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with collaborators.
- Ability to manage competing priorities, including adeptness at time management.
- Proficiency in statistical programming using SAS and/or R
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
- At least a master’s degree (with a preference for a doctoral degree) in biostatistics, statistics, computer science, data science, or a comparable field.
- Experience working in applied biostatistical research in the field of HIV and infectious diseases
- Proficiency in statistical programming using both SAS and R
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.
Special Instructions
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/272569

Posting Contact Information


Department Contact Name and Title Annette Raines, HR Consultant
Department Contact Telephone or Email [email protected]
Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to [email protected]
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

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