Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the “Trojan Family,” which is comprised of the faculty, staff, and students that make the university a great place to work.  

As a community of Dornsife College “we are committed to the creation, preservation, and communication of fundamental knowledge in all its forms…as well as a lifelong passion for learning and a commitment to the betterment of society.”  The academic mission of Dornsife College can only be realized to its fullest potential when we build and protect a representative, equitable, inclusive culture of scholarship for students, faculty, and staff.  This is not done through initiatives but by embedding these values into the everyday interactions, relationships, policies, and practices of the College.  What is required is a seamless integration of the tenets of equity and inclusivity into every facet of academic life.  If we want our scholars, staff, and students to be able to give their very best, we must create an academic environment that portends success.  

Success is possible when every member of the Dornsife community owns their role as a steward of the culture in which we learn, research, and work; when we believe that it is because of who we are that we are able to do what we do: achieve excellence, together. 

Achieving a robust and inclusive academic culture requires more than just the completion of a task, but includes that person’s capacity to contribute positively to the relationships and culture of their office or department.  Therefore, any applicant seeking to advance the mission of Dornsife College should also be assessed on their capacities beyond the technical elements of their work, and demonstrate an understanding of their impact on others, and to articulate how they contribute positively to those around them.

The USC Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate in the Brain Health Observatory with Center for Economic & Social Research (CESR).The largest and oldest of the USC schools, USC Dornsife functions as the academic core of the university, offering courses and advancing knowledge across the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

The Brain Health Observatory at the University of Southern California is seeking candidates for a post-doctoral fellowship to conduct health services and/or health policy research in brain disorders with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease. The Observatory conducts country studies on health system preparedness for Alzheimer’s disease treatments, economic analyses on the value of such treatments, policy and technology evaluations of delivery systems and diagnostic modalities and increasingly intervention studies to improve memory care. The Observatory is funded by mix of NIH grants, not-for-profit institutions and pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies. The ideal candidate would have or expect to complete a PhD or similar degree in health economics, health policy, public policy or a related quantitative field. The fellowship provides a competitive stipend and other benefits for a 12-month fixed term, which may be renewed up to a maximum of two years.

Responsibilities:

The post-doc will be responsible for his or her own research agenda as well as collaborative research activities within our multidisciplinary team. The post-doc will analyze and summarize research data, synthesize conclusions, present research findings at national and international scientific meetings, publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals, contribute to non-technical dissemination products, such as policy briefs and blog posts, and be involved in the preparation of grant applications and project proposals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent degree in economics, health policy, health services research, or a related field.
• Strong quantitative background in statistical and economic methods and focus on applied research.
• Evidence of scholarly ability (e.g., publications in competitive peer-reviewed journals, preferably first-author papers, presentations at academic meetings, and independent grant funding).
• Carry out research tasks independently, yet collaborate effectively with other research staff, and familiarize herself or himself with new subject areas quickly.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with clinical aspects of brain disorders, in particular dementia.

Salary range: The hourly rate range for this position is $66,560.00-$85,000.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time. Serves as a research trainee for the purpose of enhancing and developing research competencies. Participates in planning, designing and conducting highly technical and complex research projects under the direction of a supervisor. May or may not work independently.

Required Documents and Additional Information:

• Resume, writing sample, one page statement of research interest and contact information for three references are required (may be uploaded as one file). Please do not submit your application without these documents.
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of (5) five business days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended, so please apply on the same business day if interested.
• USC has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff and their family with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions after six months of employment; tuition benefits for staff and their family; free Professional Development classes; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses and free tram pick up services; discounts to sporting and other campus events.

The University of Southern California is an Equal Opportunity Employer that Values Diversity.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.