The Research Scientist III will play a key role in strengthening drug overdose surveillance within the DOSE Unit. This position focuses on refining data systems that integrate multiple sources across public health and safety agencies to improve detection of overdose trends and support timely interventions.
What You'll Do
Design and implement data workflows to align and reconcile datasets from the New York State Department of Health and other partners. Partner with public safety officials, crime analysts, and health program specialists to monitor the evolving drug supply and enhance situational awareness. Build analytical methods to identify spikes in overdose incidents, enabling faster public health responses. Seek out and integrate new data streams to improve forecasting accuracy and reporting speed. Conduct research using fatal and non-fatal overdose data alongside program metrics to assess impact and guide future initiatives. Translate findings into actionable insights for program planning and policy development.
Requirements
A Bachelor’s degree in epidemiology, public health, biostatistics, environmental science, or a closely related field with four years of research experience is required. Alternatively, a Master’s degree with three years of experience, or a Doctorate with one year of experience, will satisfy the qualification criteria. Candidates must demonstrate a strong foundation in research methods and data interpretation.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience analyzing drug overdose data, disease surveillance systems, or drug checking results is highly valued. Proficiency in data management, analysis, and reporting is essential. Candidates should have intermediate to advanced skills in SAS, SAS SQL, R, or Python, along with experience using mapping tools such as ARC GIS or R-based visualization libraries. Strong abilities in interpreting complex data outputs for diverse audiences are expected. Additional assets include experience with relational databases, database platforms like Access or RedCap, program evaluation design, performance monitoring, public data reporting, and creating visualizations for research dissemination, including manuscripts and scientific presentations.
Technical Stack
- SAS
- SAS SQL
- R
- Python
- ARC GIS
- R mapping capabilities
- Access
- RedCap
Benefits
Comprehensive health insurance options cover medical, dental, and vision care. Flexible spending accounts are available for medical, dependent care, adoption, parking, and transit expenses. Employees receive generous paid time off, including vacation, personal days, sick leave, and recognized holidays. Tuition support is offered for those pursuing further education or training. Retirement benefits include participation in the New York State and Local Retirement System, with optional enrollment in the Deferred Compensation Plan. Qualified retirees may access a postretirement Health Benefits Plan to help cover insurance premiums and medical costs. An Employee Assistance Program provides confidential support, wellness resources, and professional development tools available 24/7.
Work Mode
This is a hybrid position requiring residency within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location. Eligible locations include parts of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, and Massachusetts. Work is conducted through a combination of on-site and remote arrangements, supporting flexibility while maintaining collaboration.
Compensation
The annual salary for this position is $100,379. Employees based in NYC, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk, or Westchester Counties receive an additional $4,000 annual downstate adjustment, prorated for part-time appointments.
Company Culture
The organization values collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. It fosters an inclusive, supportive environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and appreciated. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, it is committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
Equal Employment Opportunity
All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. The organization actively supports diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from qualified individuals with disabilities and veterans.
