Postdoctoral Fellow (NHGRI Health Genomics Communication)

How do people understand genomic risk, respond to uncertainty, and turn health information into action? These are the questions our unit seeks to answer by combining behavioral science, health communication, health psychology, and clinical translation research within the NIH Intramural Research Program.

We are now seeking a postdoctoral fellow with strong behavioral research and quantitative skills to help design and conduct studies, analyze results, and communicate findings through manuscripts and presentations. Potential research areas include:

1. Responses to genomic results and related health information, including risk perception, self-concept, health behavior, and decisions affecting individuals and families
2. Effects of message design, framing, and delivery format on comprehension, decision-making, health behavior, and stigmatization
3. Integration of genomic and health information into clinical and community settings
4. Design and evaluation of technology-enabled patient- and provider-facing communication approaches for precision health

Fellows will have flexibility to develop research aligned with their interests while contributing to our ongoing studies. We offer individualized mentorship from Dr. Susan Persky and professional development support that is aligned with your research interests and career goals, as well as opportunities to participate in basic and translational research in genomics and health communication, including clinical trial work conducted at the NIH Clinical Center.

Prospective fellows can expect access to scientific communities, seminars, training programs, research infrastructure, and interdisciplinary expertise across NHGRI and NIH. Stipend and benefits consistent with NIH postdoctoral appointment policies.

Interested candidates should have a doctoral degree in psychology, public health, behavioral medicine, clinical science, communication, health services research, and/or a related field, received within the last 5 years. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in behavioral science, health communication, health psychology, and/or closely related research along with strong theoretical grounding. Training in quantitative research methods and study design, with experience analyzing experimental, survey, behavioral, clinical, and/or translational research data, is strongly desired. Excellent written and oral communication skills are must, as is a strong interest in learning about interdisciplinary research on genomics and precision health. Preferably, candidates will have Clinical research or clinical trial experience involving patients, healthcare providers, or clinical settings, plus experience with genetic or genomic concepts, genomic risk communication, and/or precision health.

Strong behavioral researchers without prior clinical research experience are still encouraged to apply.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. NIH welcomes foreign nationals with the exception of individuals from this list.

Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, with no discrimination for non-merit reasons such as race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, age, or membership or non-membership in an employee organization. The NIH encourages the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.