The Department of Epidemiology at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health in New York City invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist with interest in the collateral public health consequences of mass criminalization and mass incarceration, structural racism, and health disparities.

Under the direction of the Principal Investigators, the postdoctoral research scientist will join the Critical Social Epidemiology Research Collaborative's work on the school-to-prison pipeline, and the Substance use Treatment And County Incarceration (STACI) project. The first project examines the effects of policing and school discipline on adolescent mental health and substance use. The second examines the spillover effects of county incarceration on community substance use disorder treatment need, availability, use, and outcomes. Both projects focus on racial disparities in exposure to the criminal legal system and substance use and mental health outcomes. The postdoctoral research scientist will have the opportunity to explore additional research questions on both projects.

Candidates should hold a doctoral-level degree in epidemiology, social and behavioral health sciences, or a related field. Ideal candidates will have strong quantitative research skills, particularly in longitudinal modeling, spatial and/or administrative data analyses, causal inference methods, and a record of peer-reviewed publications. Experience conducting research on mass incarceration and public health is preferred.

This is a 12-month position expected start in August 2024, with the possibility of renewal for a second year, with compensation commensurate with experience. The position includes an excellent benefits package and funds for travel to professional conferences and meetings. Individuals with the following characteristics will be competitive for the position: strong motivation and commitment to a career in public health research, excellent communication and quantitative skills, ability to conduct self-directed and collaborative research.

Primary Responsibilities:

Analyze and interpret data on policing, incarceration rates, school discipline, substance use treatment need and utilization, and other substance use and mental health outcomes from a variety of administrative and population data sources (30%)

Contribute to the development of peer-reviewed manuscripts and scientific presentations (30)

Pursue independent research and career development (e.g., grant writing training) in mass criminalization/incarceration, health services, health disparities, and/or related fields (30%)

Other related duties as needed (10%)

PhD, DrPh, ScD, or equivalent degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or other related social science disciplines.

Comprehensive understanding of statistical concepts and methods.

Proficiency in at least one programing language (e.g., R, SAS, STATA).

Excellent communication skills (both oral and writing) and analytical skills.

Strong interest in health equity research

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.