Job Posting: Staff Scientist, Epidemiology Branch

Summary

The Division of Population Health Research (DiPHR) of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), is seeking to recruit an outstanding Staff Scientist in the Epidemiology Branch (EB).

The Branch conducts investigator-initiated and collaborative original epidemiologic research studies focusing on reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric health endpoints to identify etiologic mechanisms, at-risk subgroups, and interventions aimed at maximizing health and preventing, diagnosing, and/or treating disease. Staff Scientists in the EB make high-level contributions to the Branch’s active research programs, develop and implement study protocols, assist in developing relevant etiological hypotheses, prepare analytic plans and institutional review board packages necessary for successful study completion, as well as prepare scientific papers and other related work as required. In addition, Staff Scientists mentor trainees and provide professional and contracting services.

Duties

The successful applicant will work on research projects led by the EB Branch Chief, Dr. Bizu Gelaye. The research areas will focus on (1) understanding the role preconception and perinatal psychosocial exposures (e.g., trauma exposure) play in shaping short- and long-term maternal and offspring health outcomes; (2) combining epidemiologic data and novel biological markers (e.g., hair glucocorticoids and multi-omics) to understand how they impact perinatal health outcomes; and (3) identifying evidence-based solutions that improve outcomes in maternal and child health. Questions about the position can be addressed to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Yvette Pittman ([email protected]).

Who Can Apply

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

This Staff Scientist position will require advanced epidemiology knowledge and skills to function independently, leading statistical analysis of longitudinal cohort studies under the general direction of a senior investigator and as part of a research team. Qualifications include an earned doctorate in epidemiology or a closely related field (e.g., maternal and child health, public health, psychology) and additional years of postdoctoral experience relevant to the position. Preferred candidates will have excellent communication skills (both oral and written), strong quantitative skills, including statistical methods commonly used in epidemiology (e.g., longitudinal data analysis, hierarchical modeling), and experience in mentoring. Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated research interests in the areas of perinatal epidemiology, maternal and child health, and the early origins of health, as evidenced by training, work experience, and publications in peer-reviewed journals. Experience with neuroimaging, genomics and epigenomics research is advantageous but not required.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. Government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Learn more about federal benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) for federal employees & job applicants.

Standards of Conduct/Financial Disclosure

If selected, you will be required to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, OGE Form 450 to determine if a conflict or an appearance of a conflict exists between your financial interest and your prospective position with the agency.

Foreign Education

This position has an education requirement. You are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts (or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed and grades). Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer. Learn more about Foreign Education.

Reasonable Accommodation

You can request a reasonable accommodation at any time during the application or hiring process or while on the job. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply

To apply, email a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief summary of research interests and experiences (up to 2 pages), one sample publication, a mentoring philosophy statement (up to 1 page), and the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Pittman at [email protected]. Review of applications will begin on October 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.