Research Scientist I

Applications to be submitted by February 21, 2025

Compensation Grade:

P18

Compensation Details:

Minimum: $63,887.00 - Maximum: $63,887.00 Annually

Department

(OPH) CCH - Bureau of Communicable Disease Control

Job Description:

Responsibilities

The Research Scientist I (RSI) will support the implementation of mycotic disease surveillance activities within the Bureau of Communicable Disease Control (BCDC). The incumbent will work within the Central Office (CO) and will contribute toward the improvement of the New York State Department of Health’s capacity for fungal disease surveillance, including blastomycosis, coccidiomycosis, aspergillosis and histoplasmosis infections.  The incumbent will use statistical methods for surveillance of mycotic diseases and will utilize Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) data to aid in retrospectively identifying various mycotic disease cases and then use available electronic medical records to classify them and identify various demographic and other risk factor characteristics of these cases. The RSI will aid in the investigation of prospective cases reported to BCDC, and in future years, once blastomycosis is made reportable statewide, will work with local health departments to help ensure quality investigation—ensuring appropriate testing, and reviewing data for accuracy, completeness, and timeliness. The incumbent will participate in CDC-led all jurisdictional surveillance calls related to mycotic diseases. The RSI will collaborate with internal staff to analyze and compare these surveillance approaches and will liaise with the scientific and clinical fungal infectious disease medical experts.  The RSI will work with partners working on nosocomial mycotic infections to develop trainings for healthcare professionals and the public regarding mycotic disease, with an emphasis on Fungal Disease Awareness Week.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Statistics/Biostatistics, Biology, or a related field and two years of research experience; OR a Master’s degree in a related field and one year of research experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in Epidemiology or other Public Health field. Working knowledge of surveillance systems, preferably public health/epidemiology systems. Experience with communicable disease investigations, preferably respiratory diseases.  Experience with conducting structured and unstructured interviews. Strong methodological and analytical skills with proficiency in statistical programs (e.g. SAS) and Microsoft software (Access, Excel).  Working knowledge of mapping software.

Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as strong interpersonal skills. Demonstrated attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.

Conditions of Employment

Grant funded position. Compliance with funding requirements such as time and effort reporting, grant deliverables, and contract deliverables, is required.

The selected candidate must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location specified in the job posting and must also be located in or willing to relocate to one of the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts, prior to hire. Telecommuting will be available.

Travel, up to 25%, will be required.

HRI participates in the E-Verify Program.  

HRI has a long-standing dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workforce. HRI is committed to the principle of non-discrimination in all phases of its employment procedures and practices.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Qualified Individuals with Disabilities/Qualified Protected Veterans