Dr. Cinnamon Bloss and colleagues in the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science seek a postdoctoral scholar to assist in a National Institutes of Health funded project. The project aims to develop strategies for public engagement in relation to the use of genetic engineering and gene drive technologies for public health, including for the control of vector-borne diseases. The study team is interdisciplinary, including social scientists, geneticists, engineers, and public health experts. For this position, we welcome applicants with training in social science, global/public health, and public policy, and an interest in bioethics, stakeholder engagement, and technology policy and governance.

Development of genetic engineering technologies, including gene drives, to control mosquito vectors of disease has rapidly accelerated in recent years in response to increasing prevalence of mosquito-borne infections. However, because field tests, by definition, will release these modified organisms into communities and the environment, ethical development, testing and use of these technologies requires robust public engagement. The goal of this study is to develop a conceptual framework for public engagement to guide the development of gene drives and other emerging technologies from early proof of concept through field trials and their use as a public health intervention.

The fellow must have evidence of excellent writing and communication skills. This includes demonstrated ability to organize, interpret, evaluate, and present research findings in a variety of formats, including research manuscripts, grant proposals, and oral presentations. Advanced training in research design and methods is required along with interest in learning new skills. The successful candidate will have completed all requirements and have received their Ph.D. before the start date of this position, to be mutually agreed upon by the candidate and the project PI.

The project will involve the collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data including documents, interviews, and survey responses.

• The postdoc will work closely with members of the team who have experience in qualitative methods and public engagement research.
• The postdoc will be involved in gathering and analyzing materials on current public engagement efforts and will contribute to the development of a conceptual engagement
• The postdoc will be responsible for developing evaluation materials and collecting community and expert feedback via interviews and a nationally representative survey that the postdoc would help design, administer, and analyze.
• The postdoc will work within the context of a team of researchers and regularly present findings and incorporate feedback. The postdoc will be expected to author publications and make presentations on findings from the project.

How do I apply?

Please send the following to Ms. Marla Sklover (msklover@ucsd.edu):

• Cover letter
• Résumé or CV
• Anti-racism statement
• Email addresses of three references

The cover letter should tell us how you would plan to contribute to this project, what excites you, what impact you aspire to make, and what you hope to accomplish during your postdoctoral fellowship. The Bloss lab is committed to meaningfully dismantling structures of inequality by continually engaging in anti-racism work and embedding anti-racism in all of our research, education, and service activities. Please provide an anti-racism statement that expresses your commitments to anti-racism, anti-racist values, and anti-racist actions.

When should I apply?

Applicants received by Monday, May 16, 2022 will receive full consideration, and the position will remain open until filled.

What is the duration of the position?

This is a one- or two-year position. The position is full-time, with some flexibility for remote work within the U.S. based on guidelines related to COVID-19.

How much does the position pay?

The University classifies this as a Postdoctoral position. Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience.

When does the position start?

The starting date is flexible and can be immediate or as availability permits.

Will foreign applicants be considered?

Yes. UC San Diego is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, or other legally protected status