University of Utah

Postdoc Research Associate

University of Utah, Salt Lake City

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Details

Open Date 08/26/2025

Requisition Number PRN42946B

Job Title PS Post Doc Res Assoc

Working Title Postdoc Research Associate

Job Grade A00

FLSA Code Administrative

Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes

Standard Hours per Week 40

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Shift Day

Work Schedule Summary

VP Area U of U Health - Academics

Department 00868 - Psychiatry - Research

Location Campus

City Salt Lake City, UT

Type of Recruitment External Posting

Pay Rate Range $60,000 - $70,000

Close Date 11/26/2025

Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)

Job Summary

We are seeking a postdoctoral scholar to lead collaborative efforts among researchers at the University of Utah and UC San Diego in developing and applying methods in predictive and causal modeling of complex biomedical and social processes and systems. This work will involve the design of innovative techniques to analyze and model novel, high-dimensional and/or multimodal data in biobehavioral disorders and high-profile social problems such as suicide and drug overdoses. The translation of cutting-edge data science methods and results into usable scientific, policy-related or clinical knowledge is a particular focus. Example learning problems include exposome and dynamic exposome modeling, learning in timeseries and spatial data, and hybrid deep learning-causal modeling.

The successful applicant should have significant research experience in at least two of (a) deep learning and AI; (b) causal search/discovery; and © dynamical systems and/or timeseries data. Preference will be given to applicants with prior experience applying these methods on scientific problems, whether biomedical or other, and to applicants with a strong record of scientific productivity. The successful applicant must have a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related field at the start of the appointment.

The successful candidate will be based in Salt Lake City with biannual travel to La Jolla, CA. The largest city in the Intermountain West, Salt Lake is renowned for its 11 world class ski resorts and plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities. Along with easy commuting and mass transit, historic neighborhoods and active performing arts scene, these features have attracted many new residents and contributed to the ethnic and cultural diversity that characterizes modern Salt Lake City. The University of Utah and Salt Lake offer a vibrant academic and industry environment in data science collaboration, including many unique initiatives such as the Responsible AI initiative, first in the nation State of Utah Office of AI Policy and Silicon Slopes community.

The Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah was founded in 2019 with an inaugural $150 million gift from the Huntsman family and a further $350 million pledged in fundraising efforts. This groundbreaking initiative established a national institute for mental health research and treatment aimed at replicating the success of the Huntsman Cancer Institute, which has grown into an internationally-renowned center for cancer research. HMHI’s overall vision is to advance mental health research through innovative collaborations, cutting edge facilities and public-private partnerships.

The Scientific Computing Institute at the University of Utah was founded in 2000 to solve important problems for humankind by performing cutting-edge collaborative scientific computing, image analysis and visualization research. Over two decades, SCI has established itself as an internationally-recognized leader in data science and has graduated over 400 students and postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to faculty positions with universities internationally and become innovators at companies such as nVIDIA, Google, Intel and Medtronic.

The Halicioglu Data Science Institute at the University of California, San Diego was founded in 2018 as a unique, collaborative, and multidisciplinary academic unit that works to lay the groundwork for the scientific foundations of the emerging discipline of data science, including development of new methods and infrastructure. HDSI has also quickly emerged as a world leader in educating students, faculty, and industry partners in cutting-edge methods to use data science to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems.

Responsibilities

Essential functions

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Data collection through standardized clinical interviews and questionnaires
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Statistical data analysis and communication of findings
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Preparation of abstracts, posters, and manuscripts
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Assistance with grant writing.
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Minimum Qualifications

Postdoc

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

Type Benefited Staff

Special Instructions Summary

Additional Information

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at or or University Human Resource Management at if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.

All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ( OEO /AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at:

Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu

This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.