The Social Connection Study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, seeks to uncover predictors of social isolation and loneliness among persons living with HIV, to examine their associations with mental health, substance use, and HIV and other chronic disease outcomes, and to design and test social and behavioral interventions to help enhance and sustain healthy relationships. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in innovative research at the intersection of social epidemiology, intervention research, and public health.

The successful candidate will work alongside a multi-site and interdisciplinary team of experts, focusing on social relationships and their impact on health outcomes for aging populations affected by HIV. Key research areas include social support networks and the intersection of aging, chronic illness, and health inequities. Central to this project is a commitment to community engagement, ensuring the research addresses practical challenges and drives real-world solutions. This combination provides comprehensive insights into the lived experiences of individuals and communities, informing actionable public health interventions. Hybrid work arrangements are possible, but all arrangements will require in-person workdays at the SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University campus in Brooklyn, NY.

This position offers robust career development tailored to postdoctoral scholars pursuing academic research careers:

• Individual Development Plan (IDP): Collaborate with the research team to craft a personalized IDP outlining career goals, training needs, and key milestones, with guidance on skill-building, conference participation, and networking.
• Publication and Grant Opportunities: Leverage an established dataset to lead and co-author publications. Receive mentorship on securing external funding, such as NIH grants, to prepare for independent research.
• Mixed Methods Research: This role emphasizes mixed methods research, integrating quantitative analysis of large-scale survey data with qualitative approaches such as interviews, focus groups, and participatory methods.

Qualifications:

• Terminal degree in sociology, psychology, social epidemiology, or a related field.
• Advanced training and expertise in quantitative, qualitative, and/or mixed-method analytic approaches.
• Knowledge of SAS and R (preferred).
• Experience and commitment to community-based research (preferred).
• Experience in publishing in peer-reviewed journals (preferred).

To Apply:

• Send application materials via email to Dr. Tracey Wilson ([email protected]) with the subject line Postdoctoral Research Associate.
• Attach to the email your current CV, a cover letter, and a list of three references.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.