Logo
University of Utah

Post Doc Res Assoc

University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States, 84193


The

College of Social and Behavioral Science

at the

University of Utah

is seeking applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate with an interest in applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) to US Census data. AI is having far-reaching effects as it moves into everyday systems, such as healthcare, education, policy, immigration, and criminal justice, often with a focus on individualized outcomes. Interdisciplinary research is critical for developing “responsible” technologies that forward the public interest, recognizing AI as both a technological approach and a social practice (e.g. how humans are classified, how we identify technological problems, how we understand our society). Federal Statistical Research Data Centers, such as the

Wasatch Front Research Data Center (WFRDC) , located in the Interdisciplinary Exchange for Utah Science (NEXUS), offer a unique resource of census microdata, allowing the exploration of socio-demographic dynamics at an individual level, and there is a significant opportunity to apply AI methodologies to these data. We seek a researcher interested in developing research that integrates AI methods with the type of microdata held in the WFRDC. The successful candidate for this position will have a record of working with socio-demographic data and AI methods, and a commitment to responsible AI applications.

Applicants should articulate a research plan that encompasses their own agenda and work with AI in ways that explicitly consider ethical implications. The research plan should involve analysis of census microdata at the WFRDC and the integration of other datasets (e.g. on redlining, mortgage lending, environmental exposures or health outcomes), and should reflect the specific research interests of the applicant. The selected applicant will join a collaborative team of geographers, sociologists, and other researchers using the WFRDC. Ideally, applicants will demonstrate interest in collaborations within the college and across campus. They will also have the opportunity to provide training for students interested in linking AI with, for example, research methods and ethics, policy applications, and social justice.

Responsibilities

Carry out independent researchEngage in research collaborations with University of Utah faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate studentsUtilize resources associated with the Wasatch Front Regional Data CenterDocument research activities and follow applicable data management protocolsShare research skills and findings with faculty, postdocs, and grad students through research group meetings, seminars, and/or classesMinimum Qualifications

A PhD in data science, computer science, demography, geography, GIS, sociology, or other closely-related field with experience related to machine/deep learning algorithms, by the anticipated start date.Enthusiasm about applying AI methods to social-environmental problems.Extensive experience with data science methods and approaches, including the use of scientific computer programming in languages such as R and Python.Familiarity working with large, complex datasets.Excellent written and oral presentation skills.Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.Ability to work independently, lead project deliverables and meet deadlines.Due to data access restrictions in Federal Statistical Data Centers, candidates should be either a U.S. resident or a foreign national who has been in the U.S. 3 of the last 5 years. Some data access requires U.S. citizenship.Preferences

Experience and interest in critical AI perspectives and ethical considerations in the application of AI to human-data researchPrior practical, coursework, and/or research experience with the proliferation of bias and stereotypes, societal implications of data-driven technologies and/or the role of predictive practices in politics, society, and economicsAdditional Information

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions.This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106.To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (OEO/AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).* Do you meet the minimum qualifications of the position as specified in the job posting?

YesNo

Required Documents

Curriculum VitaeResearch StatementOptional Documents

Cover LetterAddendum to the University of Utah - Veteran Only - Call 801.581.2169 after submissionAppropriate discharge document (such as a DD-214 – Member Copy 4) – Veteran Only – Call 801.581.2169List of ReferencesUniversity Human Resource Management250 East 200 South, Suite 125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111Contact us: (801) 581-2169 By Email: employment@utah.edu

#J-18808-Ljbffr