Postdoctoral Scholar

Department: Prevention Science Institute
Rank: Postdoctoral Scholar
Annual Basis: 12 Month

Review of Applications Begins

February 4, 2026; position open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applications are completed online and must include:
• a letter of interest
• a current résumé/curriculum vita

All application materials should specifically address how you, as an applicant, meet the minimum and preferred qualifications for this position.

Department Summary

The Prevention Science Institute (PSI) is a multi-disciplinary institute focused on understanding human development, preventing behavioral health problems, and implementing effective interventions in community settings. The PSI encompasses focus areas consistent with the field of prevention science, including prevention and intervention, and implementation science. Understanding effective intervention strategies and the outcomes associated with these interventions across multiple domains of functioning, including biological, social, and contextual, is the focus of research at the PSI.

The core mission of the PSI is to improve the lives and well-being of children, individuals, and families throughout the lifespan. The PSI is committed to research that expands our understanding of interventions and development with diverse populations and actively seeks to promote research that reduces health disparities in service utilization.

Position Summary

Postdoctoral scholars seek to improve their skills through direct, mentored scholarship, conducting research under the direction of a faculty member for the purpose of acquiring research training, which will lead to successful employment in a research position. PSI scientists are collaborative in their research activities, and postdoctoral scholars are expected to serve in both lead and supporting roles in manuscript development and other project activities. In addition, the post-doctoral fellow will also support the coordination of ongoing intervention trials and deliver intervention and assessment directly with young children as a part of these trials. The nature of the work is relatively fast-paced, and we value rigor, reproducibility, and productivity in scholarship from all members of the research team while maintaining a positive and supportive work environment.

Postdoctoral positions are limited-duration appointments potentially renewable for up to a total of two years. In limited circumstances, there is the possibility of renewal beyond two years based on programmatic need, funding, and performance. For the purpose of acquiring additional professional skills needed to pursue a career path in the chosen field, this position will have a formal mentor plan. The purpose of this postdoctoral position will include training in community-engaged research, implementation science, study management, grant writing, manuscript development, and field assessments. We are looking for an individual who wants to continue to grow as an independent scientist alongside Drs. Cioffi, De Anda, and Leve.

Special requirement: Maintain a valid driver’s license (required)

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in education, psychology, prevention science, special education, quantitative methodology, or a related field, in hand by start of position.
• 5 years of research experience in psychology, prevention science, special education, quantitative methodology, or related fields (can include time during graduate-level training).
• Experience with data analytics and scientific writing skills as evidenced by rigorous scholarship (e.g., publications, grant submissions, or presentations).

Professional Competencies

• Proficiency with research data collection and management tools (e.g., REDCap, Qualtrics), Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and collaboration platforms (Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive); strong technical aptitude for managing research data files and troubleshooting routine technical issues.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with demonstrated attention to detail and the ability to prioritize work, manage overlapping deadlines, and adapt effectively in dynamic research environments.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information clearly and professionally while maintaining sensitivity, confidentiality, and diligence related to personnel and human subjects information.
• Ability to engage respectfully and effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, academic, and disciplinary backgrounds within and beyond the academic research context.
• Ability to represent the PSI in a professional and collegial manner with a broad r