Job Description

Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Jackson State University's Mississippi Delta Center of Excellence in Maternal Health (MSDCoE) seeks a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate with demonstrated experience in maternal health research and/or related research. The postdoc will conduct independent and collaborative research focused on maternal morbidity and mortality, perinatal health disparities in Mississippi, postpartum care and reproductive health; implementation and evaluation of maternal-health interventions, and translation of findings into policy and practice. A strong publication record is required to support leadership for publications and other scholarly activities of the MSDCoE.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Center PI/Director, Center staff, faculty investigators, faculty affiliates, community partners, and trainees.

Examples of Duties

Key responsibilities include:

1. Lead and contribute to quantitative and/or qualitative research projects on maternal health (study design, data collection, data management, statistical or qualitative analysis).
2. Prepare manuscripts, technical reports, policy briefs, and grant proposals.
3. Support technical data processes as assigned.
4. Support and mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees and assist with workshops/training related to maternal health research methods.
5. Facilitate community engagement and maintain partnerships with local health departments, clinics, and community organizations in the Mississippi Delta region.
6. Present findings at internal meetings and national conferences; assist with knowledge translation activities for policymakers and practitioners.
7. Comply with human subject's protections (IRB) and data security practices.

Typical Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include:

• Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., DrPH, or equivalent doctoral degree in public health, epidemiology, maternal & child health, health services research, biostatistics, nursing, or a closely related field by the appointment start date.
• Demonstrated research experience in maternal health (e.g., pregnancy outcomes, perinatal mental health, preterm birth, maternal morbidity/mortality, health disparities, maternal substance use, maternal health services).
• Experience with at least one of the following: epidemiologic methods, advanced quantitative analysis (Stata, SAS, SPSS), qualitative methods, implementation science, mixed-methods research, or community-based participatory research.
• Experience using REDCap. Prior work or research experience in underserved/rural communities, especially the Mississippi Delta or other similar regions.
• Strong writing record (peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, or grant contributions) and excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience working with community partners, health departments, or clinical systems.
• Experience preparing NIH or foundation grant applications and demonstrated success as an author on peer-reviewed publications.
• Training or experience in policy translation and dissemination to non-academic audiences.
• Typical appointment: 1 year with renewal contingent on performance and funding; potential for up to 2-3 years depending on grant support.
• Start date: negotiable; earlier start preferred.

Application Materials

Please submit a single PDF containing:

• Cover letter (including a brief statement of relevant maternal health experience and how your work aligns with the Center's mission).
• Curriculum vitae (including publication list).
• Research statement (up to 2 pages) describing past work and proposed research directions at the Center.
• Contact information for three professional references (references will be contacted only for finalists).
• Representative publication or manuscript (optional).

Send applications to: Dr. Mary Shaw-Ridley, mary.shaw@jsums.edu with the subject line: Postdoc Application — Mississippi Delta Center of Excellence in Maternal Health. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Jackson State University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our campus and who have experience working with underserved and historically marginalized communities.

For questions about the position or the Center's research priorities, contact: Dr. Mary Shaw-Ridley, Professor, Principal Investigator & Center Director, mary.shaw@jsums.edu.

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