Research Scientist

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute ( FPG) is one of the nation's oldest and largest multidisciplinary centers devoted to the study of children and their families. As one of the nation's leading child development research centers, we generate scientific evidence, inform policies, and support practices to promote positive developmental and educational outcomes for children of all backgrounds and abilities from infancy to adolescence.

FPG has a particular focus on the study of vulnerable populations and those who have special needs. In addition, FPG is committed to creating a place where everyone is welcome, supported, and has the resources they need to grow and thrive regardless of identity, origin, or difference in circumstances as well as engaging in work that addresses critical issues related to educational inequality and barriers to inclusion that impact children's wellbeing.

Approximately 280 researchers, implementation and technical assistance specialists, staff, and students work on more than 75 projects related to developmental disabilities; physical, social, and emotional health; early care and education; early intervention and special education, prevention science, and more to address important issues facing all children and families. Our work spans across disciplines from education and psychology to social work and public health.

We collaborate with researchers across campus and throughout the nation. At FPG, transdisciplinary collaboration is a way to leverage collective expertise for comprehensive and relevant research and outreach, and is embodied in our motto: Advancing knowledge to transform children's lives.

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

This position serves as a research scientist on two autism-focused projects involving research synthesis, evidence translation, and dissemination to support practice and decision-making. The first project, Project EXPRESS, involves dissemination of findings from a school-based intervention study comparing two interventions for autistic middle school students, including interventions focused on executive functioning and peer relationships and friendships. The second project, AFIRM-AI, focuses on identifying, evaluating, and disseminating evidence-based practices for autistic children and youth from birth to age 22. The position contributes to systematic review and meta-analysis activities and applies research expertise to study screening, quality appraisal, data extraction, interpretation of findings, and development of dissemination tools and products for educators and other stakeholders.

Master's or Bachelor's and 0-2 years' experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.

* Demonstrated knowledge of research methods and experience contributing to research projects involving literature review, data collection, data management, analysis, interpretation, or dissemination.
* Ability to apply research concepts to the synthesis and communication of findings.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to work independently on assigned research tasks, and contribute effectively to collaborative research efforts.
* Proficiency with standard computer applications and research-related software or platforms (e.g., REDCap).

* Experience disseminating research findings or evidence-based practices to researchers, practitioners, or community stakeholders through manuscripts, presentations, reports, briefs, web resources, or other dissemination products.
* Experience with implementation research, procedural evaluation studies, or school-based intervention research.
* Experience with interventions for autistic individuals, especially children and youth.
* Knowledge of systematic review methods, including study screening, quality appraisal, and data extraction for single-case experimental design and group design studies.
* Experience developing tools, resources, or products for educators or other end users.

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The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.