Grade: G

The Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine is seeking a Social Science Research Professional 2 to manage a large, federally funded, multi-site study of the causes of birth defects. The California Center’s research efforts, both independently and in collaboration with other Centers for Birth Defects Research and Prevention contributing to the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) and the Birth Defects Study to Evaluate Pregnancy Exposures I (BD-°©STEPS I) have been at the forefront of public health birth defects research. The Project Coordinator will collaborate with Center Principal Investigator and staff to further enhance scientific understanding of the potential causes of specific birth defects, which will undoubtedly have
important implications for risk assessment and prevention of common, costly, and deadly birth defects.

Duties include:

•  Assist in designing experiments, exercising independent initiative and judgment gained from completing a variety of high level assignments, including activities such as defining variables, formulating hypotheses, and selecting subjects, sources of information, or planned and coordinating experimental protocols. 
• Adapt or work out the details of new, nonstandard procedures, with the supervisor providing only general guidance and suggestions.
• Interpret, synthesize, and analyze data using scientific or statistical techniques.
• Solve problems, and make decisions which affect the direction of the research and result in independent contributions to the overall project.
• Select and apply standard calculations and formulas independently to compile data or process documents; often serve as a resource for research methods and numerical analyses.
• Co-author sections of research publications and regulatory reports as needed.
• Complete project-related administrative and budgetary responsibilities of a limited scope as needed.
• Supervise staff or students as needed, including oversight and instruction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work.
• Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Experience with project management and Stanford processes highly desired. 
• Demonstrated experience with statistical programs highly desired.
• Demonstrated experience with multiple collaborators and consultants desired.
• Graduate level preparation/degree in related field highly desired.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor of Arts degree in an applicable social science related field and two years applicable experience, or combination of education and experience in an applicable social science.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific theory and methods.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with human study participants.
• Developing supervisory skills.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently perform desk-based computer tasks, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds.
• Occasionally stand/walk, sit, use a telephone, writing by hand, and sort/file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely twist/bend/stoop/squat, kneel/crawl, rarely reach/work above shoulders, operate foot and/or hand controls.
• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May be exposed to blood borne pathogens.
• May be required to work non-standard, extended or weekend hours in support of research work.