GFRP Research Associate

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Since 1966, researchers at the Carolina Population Center have pioneered data collection and research techniques that move population science forward by emphasizing life course approaches, longitudinal surveys, the integration of biological measurement into social surveys, and attention to context and environment. We are also at the forefront of creating interdisciplinary training programs that integrate approaches from the social and biological sciences, building research capacity and training the next generation of scholars. Our faculty fellows address pressing research questions about population dynamics, fertility, health, mortality, migration, and the environment. Faculty come from multiple disciplines, benefitting from the cross-pollination of ideas. Our dedicated research and programming staff support fellows at every stage of project development, from conception through data collection or acquisition, analysis and dissemination, and project administration. https://www.cpc.unc.edu/about/

As a member of the Global Food Research Program ( GFRP) team, the GFRP Research Associate contributes to studies examining the impact of food and beverage policies in the US and around the world. GFRP research projects include evaluating the effect of policies and proposals using large-scale population-level datasets on the food supply, food purchases, prices, dietary intake, and health. The GFRP Research Associate works closely with our interdisciplinary team and collaborates with research staff, students, programmers, project managers, and many colleagues at UNC and across the globe.

The GFRP Research Associate is responsible for planning, interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating results using household food purchase panel data, retail food sales, and packaged food and beverage nutritional data, thus experience with large and complex datasets is required. Expertise in longitudinal and other advanced statistical methods is required, as is the ability to develop and adapt statistical models, conducting diagnostics and management of these data. Familiarity with packaged food and beverage product labelling regulations and implications for data quality, methods, and analyses is required as is familiarity with the application of ultraprocessed food definitions and other nutrient and food classification systems. This position is expected to independently conduct data analysis with input from the GFRP Co-Directors and the research team, and to interpret, and validate and/or redirect research methodology, plans, and publications based on outcome of analyses and results. This position may provide consultation to both the GFRP team and collaborators as an expert involving complex data and methods; the ability and willingness to work with a large mix of people and work styles is critical.

The GFRP Research Associate provides research, analytical and technical writing support on research protocols, papers, manuscripts and deliverables for GFRP Co-Directors Drs. Shu Wen Ng, Lindsey Smith Taillie, and collaborators. This role includes co-authoring manuscripts, publications, and reports. A critical piece of GFRP's research and evaluation is the time-sensitive dissemination of research findings to stakeholders to inform development and refinement of food policies. As needed, this position may also be responsible for the development of presentations, policy briefs, fact sheets, presentations, and other materials required to disseminate these findings in a time-sensitive manner and may serve as primary presenter. This position may collaborate with GFRP Co-Directors in the conception and design of original research.

Master's or Bachelor's and 0-2 years' experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.

* At least five years of experience independently analyzing experimental and non-experimental data, including cross-sectional and longitudinal data from large and complex datasets, such as food composition tables, large-scale datasets of packaged food products or household grocery purchases and experience with data management and analysis
* Strong understanding of food labeling regulations and guidelines at the international level and implications for national level regulatory operationalization and implementation.
* Strong understanding of food classification frameworks and their application to food supply data, including ultraprocessed foods, food additives, food categories, and nutrient-based models
* Lead authorship at least 10 peer-reviewed publications as well as additional co-authored publications
* Strong interpersonal, and written and verbal communication to communicate effectively with staff and collaborators.
* Knowledge of and proficiency with Microsoft Office and Teams
* Prior experience in authoring successful peer-reviewed publications is necessary.
* Knowledge of social/clinical research principles, study design, methods, statistics and analysis used to identify and communicate trends and develop strategies to guide projects, programs, or new initiatives

* A doctoral degree in nutrition, public health, or a related field with a strong emphasis on scientific writing, data analysis skills and scientific communications.
* Experience working on multiple projects at a time with possibly competing deadlines.
* Experience working with a diverse set of collaborators across different countries, cultures and time zones.
* Experience in nutrition and disease prevention research.

Not Applicable.

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The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.