Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

The Department of Population and Public Health Sciences invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate in clinical and translational addiction research. This position will play a central role in the conduct of clinical trials and human laboratory studies designed to evaluate the efficacy of candidate treatments for alcohol use disorder, tobacco use disorder, and cannabis use disorder. The fellow will contribute to various elements of these projects, including the design and implementation of randomized trials involving pharmacotherapy and/or behavioral interventions, the development of study protocols and regulatory materials, and the development of human laboratory protocols involving alcohol and/or nicotine administration or self-administration. A primary focus for this position will be clinical trials and other experimental studies investigating incretin-based therapies (e.g., GLP-1 receptor agonists and GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists) for substance use disorders. The fellow will also have opportunities for leadership roles in data analysis and manuscript writing, and will act in a leadership capacity for junior trainees. Training in grant writing can be incorporated as a component of the position. The fellow will have access to newly developed human laboratory research space (e.g., simulated bar, smoking rooms) for data collection for clinical and experimental studies, and will benefit from exposure to diverse scientific and collaborative opportunities through the USC Institute for Addiction Science (https://ias.usc.edu) and numerous collaborating schools and departments across the University of Southern California. Required qualifications for this position include a completed doctoral degree in a relevant field (e.g., clinical psychology, experimental psychology, pharmacology, or neuroscience), at least two years of experience leading or co-leading research projects involving human subjects, and a strong record of research productivity based on publication history. Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills are also essential for this position. Preferred qualifications include prior experience with regulated clinical trials, experience carrying out human laboratory/psychopharmacology protocols, proficiency with electronic and remote data capture systems (e.g., ecological momentary assessment, REDCap) and prior experience working in a multidisciplinary team in medical and/or research settings. Experience with the development of regulatory and protocol materials to support clinical research studies (e.g., IRB applications, study protocols, SOPs) would be a particular asset. Strong quantitative skills would also be a highly valued asset for this position. The annual base salary for this position is $70,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidates work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. The position term is for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 3 years, with a start date between July, 2025 and August, 2026. To apply, please send a cover letter/statement of research interests, curriculum vitae, and 3 representative publications or writing samples to Dr. Christian Hendershot, Director of Clinical Research, USC Institute for Addiction Science (christian.hendershot@usc.edu). Requests for additional details can also be submitted prior to applying. Applicants selected for an interview will also be asked to submit three letters of recommendation. JOB QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods. Preferred Field of Expertise: Publications in peer-reviewed journals in the same or related field. Skills: Other: Analysis Assessment/evaluation Communication -- written and oral skills Conceptualization and design Organization Planning Problem identification and resolution Project management Research Statistical analysis Skills: Machine/Equipment: Calculator Computer network (department or school) Computer network (university) Computer peripheral equipment Fax Personal computer Photocopier Supervises: Level: May oversee student, temporary and/or casual workers. Comments: A copy of the doctoral diploma or other certification that indicates that the terminal degree has been completed satisfactorily is required. If the doctoral candidate has not yet obtained a degree, he/she should provide evidence that a thesis has been approved together with a documented indication of the expected date of formal graduation. It is the responsibility of the faculty mentor to verify this documentation. The documentation is to be filed with the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law. Notice of Non-discrimination Employment Equity Read USCs Clery Act Annual Security Report USC is a smoke-free environment Digital Accessibility If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$131571.htmld USC is a leading private research university located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles a global center for arts, technology and international business. As the largest private employer in the city responsible for more than $5 billion annually in economic activity in the region we offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and diverse environment, in careers that span a broad spectrum of talents and skills. As a USC employee, you will enjoy excellent benefits and perks, and you will be a member of the Trojan Family - the faculty, staff, students and alumni who make USC a great place to work. Application help If you need assistance during the application process, see our application help. (If you already work for USC, see Your USC career.) At any point you may also contact our HR Service Center for help at (213) 821-8100 or uschr@usc.edu. Don't see the dream job you are looking for? Drop off your contact information and resume and we will reach out to you if we find the perfect fit!