The Exposure-Related Care Transformation (EXPRT) Center (https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/WARRELATEDILLNESS/EXPRT/index.asp ) at the VA New Jersey War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC; www.warrelatedillness.va.gov ) is seeking an experienced Research Scientist with deep expertise in qualitative research, program evaluation, and health services research. This role requires an independent, highly skilled researcher who is comfortable leading complex evaluation projects for national programs and contributing to the scientific direction of the EXPRT Center. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment while being fully capable of managing projects autonomously. They will contribute to the development, execution, and dissemination of evaluation initiatives that inform policy, practice, and Veteran care nationwide.
About the EXPRT Center
The EXPRT Center is dedicated to transforming care and improving the health of Veterans with military environmental exposure concerns. Our mission is carried out through innovative research, education, clinical application, and evaluation initiatives. Located within the VA New Jersey War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, a nationally recognized tertiary care program near New York City, we specialize in serving Veterans with complex, difficult-to-diagnose conditions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead qualitative research and mixed‑methods research and evaluation projects for national military exposure‑related programs
- Develop evaluation frameworks, methodologies, and data collection protocols
- Conduct interviews, focus groups, thematic analyses, and other qualitative methods
- Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for diverse stakeholders
- Prepare high-quality reports, presentations, and manuscripts for publication
- Collaborate with clinicians, researchers, and operational partners across the VA
- Contribute to grant writing, scientific planning, and program development
- Maintain ethical standards and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Represent the EXPRT Center in national workgroups and collaborative initiatives
Qualifications
Required
- U.S. Citizenship
- PhD in Public Health, Psychology, Sociology, Health Services Research, Evaluation Science, or related discipline
- A minimum of 8 years of experience conducting research and program evaluation
- Demonstrated expertise with qualitative methodologies (e.g., thematic analysis, grounded theory, content analysis)
- Experience independently designing and executing complex research studies
- Strong record of scientific writing, including peer‑reviewed publications and evaluation reports
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and operational partners
Preferred
- Experience in Veteran health, military exposures, or related health services research
- Familiarity with implementation science, evaluation of national or large‑scale programs, and mixed‑methods design
- Experience working in healthcare and/or government research environments
Why Join Us?
- Contribute to innovative national initiatives that directly impact Veteran health and care
- Work within a supportive interdisciplinary team at a nationally recognized center
- Engage in meaningful, mission-oriented research that informs clinical and policy decisions
- Opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and scientific leadership
Salary Range: $90,000 – $163,062
Benefits: health, dental, paid time off, 401k