Postdoc Research Associate

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 will include data collection through standardized clinical interviews and questionnaires; statistical data analysis and communication of findings; preparation of abstracts, posters, and manuscripts; and assistance with grant writing.

Minimum Qualifications

Postdoc

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

Requisition Number: PRN41384B

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Work Schedule Summary:

Department: 00868 - Psychiatry - Research

Location: Campus

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

Close Date: 6/7/2025