The Ohio State University's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health actively seeks a motivated and talented Postdoctoral Scholar to join our research team. As a Postdoctoral Scholar at one of the nation's leading research institutions, you will have the unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects aimed at advancing our understanding of health disparities and health determinants of adolescent mental health, and alcohol and substance use trajectories. The Postdoctoral Scholar will work on several NIH-funded ongoing projects investigating the sociocultural and structural determinants of youth health, focused on mental health, and alcohol and substance use among minoritized youth. Our methods apply quantitative and qualitative approaches to conduct:

• Secondary quantitative data analyses with Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, a national multisite consortium following over 11,000 youth prospectively throughout adolescence.
• Qualitative studies with local youth community samples.

This position is ideal for someone hoping to increase their publication record during their postdoc and launch an independent research career. Our research environment aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, working alongside a diverse team of researchers, faculty, and staff to drive research projects forward. Our research philosophy embraces inclusivity, where diverse perspectives contribute to well-rounded research outcomes. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion and encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

• Publications, Presentations, and Professional Development (60%):
  • Prepare research findings for first-authored publications in peer-reviewed journals, sharing diverse viewpoints and insights.
  • Contribute as co-author to other lab publications.
  • Attend and present at workshops, conferences, and training sessions that promote diversity and inclusivity in research practices.
  • Stay abreast of the latest research developments in the social determinants of health for youth, fostering diversity and equity in research perspectives.
  • Develop and write their own early-career research grants (e.g., K99/R99, K01).
• Data Management and Analysis (20%):
  • Quantitative Statistical Analysis: (1) Prepare large datasets for analysis using the publicly available ABCD Study dataset, with a focus on behavioral data; (2) Implement longitudinal mixed-effect models and/or structural equation models using the ABCD study dataset.
  • Qualitative Analysis: (1) Assist with preparation and review of audio transcripts for data analysis; (2) Conduct qualitative data analyses using thematic analysis.
  • Implement rigorous data management practices, ensuring data accuracy, security, and confidentiality.
  • Adhere to institutional guidelines that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in data handling and research.
• Data Collection and Regulatory Documents (10%):
  • Participate in data collection for a qualitative study with youth from diverse backgrounds.
  • Assist with preparation of regulatory documents related to the conduct of human research.
  • Supports activities to ensure compliance with all Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)
  • Assist with preparation of regulatory documents related to annual progress reports for NIH sponsored grant activities.
• Collaborative Research (10%):
  • Prepare research findings for publications from existing or new collaborations (i.e., dissertation papers, prospective K mentors).
  • Participation in diversity, equity, and inclusion service (e.g., committees, advisory councils, campus organizations or initiatives).

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in psychology, psychiatry, neuroscience, public health or a related field.
• Strong research skills, data analysis proficiency, and statistical expertise.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate within diverse teams while demonstrating independent research capabilities.
• A strong trajectory towards research productivity, including publications and conference presentations.
• Adherence to ethical research principles and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in advanced statistical analysis and data software (e.g., R, Mplus, Python, MATLAB, SPSS).
• Trajectory towards strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, with an emphasis on diverse perspectives and underrepresented voices.
• Familiarity or willingness to learn software and technology relevant to qualitative data analysis for audio transcription and thematic coding.
• Prior experience in assisting with grant writing.

This is a full-time position with an initial appointment of 2 years, renewable based on performance and funding availability.

The target hiring range is $61,000-$65,000. The actual salary will fall within this range based on internal equity, the candidate's qualifications and available funding.