Assistant Research Scientist
University of Iowa

The Pharmacy Practice and Science department in the College of Pharmacy is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist to join their team. The primary research focus for this position will be on improving rural health outcomes, particularly in areas such as cardiovascular disease (including diabetes, atrial fibrillation, etc.), reducing infectious diseases in rural areas through antibiotic stewardship programs, and improving transitions of care. Contribute to funding applications and perform research experiments, simulations, and investigations. Analyze data and disseminate research findings.

This is a specified-term appointment at 100% effort for 3 years. After 3 years, the specified-term appointment may be eligible for renewal, dependent on funding.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Experiments, Simulations, Modeling, or Theoretical Investigations

• Perform experiments, simulations, or theoretical investigations.
• Collect data and evaluate relevance of data.
• Work independently on basic research tasks with oversight by Faculty or Principal Investigator (PI).

Data/Research Analysis and Evaluation

• Analyze data for relevance and data integrity.
• Perform basic data analysis techniques.
• Compare results of scientific investigations to previously published work.

Dissemination of Research Results

• Prepare manuscripts for contributing author for publication.
• Present results in departmental seminars and at professional meetings.

Research Proposals/Grants

• Contribute to new or continuing research grant proposals to obtain funding for research activities.
• May serve as co-PI on grants or proposals.
• Contribute to progress reports required by funding agencies.

Service

• Provide service to the scientific community, University and General Public.
• Review submitted manuscripts and research proposals.
• Consult and collaborate with the research community.

Human Resources/Supervision

• Mentor graduate students.
• May provide functional and/or administrative supervision for staff.
• Provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching, and counseling to ensure outcomes are achieved.

For a complete job description, please contact Libby Kleppe at libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu

Education Requirement

• PhD in public health, health services research, data science, or similar degrees; or other doctoral degree, such as PharmD.

Experience Required

• Minimum of 1 year of experience with health services research, health policy, or pharmaceutical care research.
• Strong proficiency in statistical analysis and data management software (e.g., SAS, SPSS, R, Stata).
• Knowledge of machine learning, neural networks, or other advanced data analytics techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple projects effectively.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to ensure data accuracy and confidentiality.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience with machine learning and predictive analytics in healthcare.
• Experience with grant writing and research funding processes.
• Experience working in academic or healthcare research settings.
• Familiarity with qualitative research methods (e.g., focus groups, interviews, NVivo).
• A demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience with rural health research and antibiotic stewardship programs.
• Proficiency in Python, TensorFlow, or other machine learning frameworks.

Application and Position Details

• In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For additional questions, please contact Libby Kleppe at libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu.

Benefits Highlights

• Regular salaried position. Pay level 5A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
• For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Asst Research Scientist/Engin
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: On Campus

Compensation

• Pay Level: 5A
• Starting Salary Minimum: 62,000
• Starting Salary Maximum: 75,000

Contact Information

• Organization: College of Pharmacy
• Contact Name: Libby Kleppe
• Contact Email: libby-kleppe@uiowa.edu

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