Institution (Location)
Northeastern University
Start Date
September 1, 2019
Salary
Competitive
Position Description

The Health Technology Lab (www.northeastern.edu/healthtech/) at Northeastern University, Boston, MA, is looking to hire one postdoctoral research fellow with strong interest and competency in behavioral interventions using technology (e.g. video games, apps, etc.), with a special emphasis on physical activity and child obesity intervention. The position is immediately available. The Lab provides an intellectually vibrant scientific environment for researchers and scientists who study the persuasive mechanisms of media and communication technologies and their health, behavioral and psychological applications. We are currently funded by the National Institutes of Health to conduct a 5-year study on the use of active video games to encourage children to increase their physical activity levels. The primary objective of the position is to conduct and coordinate research in physical activity intervention using exercise science methods. The fellow will join an interdisciplinary team of researchers (including communication and behavioral scientists, medical doctors, kinesiologists, psychologists, computer scientists, and biostatisticians) and be involved in all aspects of the research process. Opportunities include having access to data sets for publications, developing and writing research grant proposals, participation in providing academic mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students and research staff, dissemination of research findings at professional conferences, and career development resources through Northeastern University and the Greater Boston area. The postdoctoral associate will also have access to the facilities within and beyond the Lab, including the new Bioimaging Research Center in the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex (http://www.northeastern.edu/isec/). The fellow is also expected to coordinate one or more of the lab’s ongoing research projects and initiate independent research projects pending satisfactory project coordination. Depending on the need from the university, the candidate may also have the opportunity to serve as the instructor of record for additional compensation.

Candidate’s Qualifications (who should apply)

A Ph.D. in exercise science, kinesiology, exercise physiology, behavioral science, health behavior, or a related field is required by the start date of the position. Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills, attention to details, as well as training in health behavior intervention, research methodology, and quantitative data analysis are essential to the successful candidate. Proposal preparations for sponsored research funding, research experience involving children, and project management experience are pluses. Initial appointments are for a one-year period, with the possibility for renewal, contingent on performance. Salary and benefits are competitive.

How to Apply

Applicants should send a letter of application addressing the selection criteria and indicating how their background and expertise fit with the specific needs of the Lab, a curriculum vitae, one print of prior scientific publications, and the names and contact information of 3-5 references through: https://neu.peopleadmin.com/postings/60512. References will only be sought for finalists.

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