Postdoctoral Fellowship in Research on Social Determinants of Health & Prevention Science

Position Primary Purpose and General Duties:

Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work is located in Richmond, the capital of Virginia. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a premier urban, R1, public university that has a diverse student body. The university has a wide range of research centers and institutes that facilitate and promote interdisciplinary research. Founded in 1917, the VCU School of Social Work is a highly ranked program offering B.S.W, M.S.W and Ph.D. degrees.

We are pleased to announce a postdoctoral fellowship focusing on the social determinants of health and prevention sciences. This fellowship offers innovative research training in the prevention of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the promotion of family self-sufficiency. The postdoctoral fellow will primarily work on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded "Strategic Prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences (SPACE)" project. This project collaborates with pediatric health and school partners throughout Virginia to implement and evaluate an evidence-based intervention to prevent ACEs and improve maternal and child health. The fellowship program emphasizes training and developing independent research investigators who will assume leadership roles in academic and research institutions, focusing on translating and disseminating new scientific evidence to improve child and family wellness.

There will be considerable opportunities for the postdoctoral scholar to participate in developing and implementing several research projects, project coordination, facilitation of prevention programs, recruitment, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, and grant writing. The postdoctoral fellowship is for a 12-month period, with the option to renew for additional years, contingent on performance and funding. The fellow will report to Dr. Sunny Shin, Director of the Innovation in Child and Family Wellness (Innovative Wellness) Research at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work. This full-time position requires a minimum commitment of one year.

Candidates interested in the position should submit (1) cover letter/a letter of interest describing qualifications and experience AND names/contact information for at least three references; (2) curriculum vitae; and (3) one example of scholarly writing (as an “Additional Document").

Required Qualifications:

• Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in social work, psychology, nursing, public health, or a related discipline focused on behavioral intervention research.
• Excellent writing skills are required, as evidenced by publications or grant-writing experience.
• Applicants must have a demonstrated record of conducting empirical research and working in a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment.
• Excellent oral communication and community engagement skills.
• Experience managing mixed-method research data sets, with knowledge of a range of research methodologies (group experimental, qualitative), and advanced qualitative data analysis skills.
• Proficient quantitative data analysis skills, including the ability to use statistical packages and proficiency in navigating and maintaining databases, are required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in prevention research areas, including child abuse prevention, social-emotional learning, trauma-informed care, health promotion, health equity, and evaluation research.
• A background or experience in medical record analysis.
• Experience in teaching and working with youth in school or community settings.