Research Associate (Centre for Research in Health Systems Performance)

This Research Associate position focuses on developing Natural Language Processing and Item Response Theory systems for patient-reported outcomes measurement. Key responsibilities include leading research, data analysis, calibration of patient-reported outcomes, and mentoring students. Essential qualifications include a Master's degree, demonstrated experience in NLP/IRT, R/Python programming, handling large datasets, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

• Managing and leading the proposed research project, including the conduct of data analyses, focusing on calibration of Patient Reported Outcome Measures using advanced psychometric methods and publication and dissemination
• Establishing an independent research programme derived from the current project
• Providing support for other collaborative, multidisciplinary research within CRiHSP and DFM
• Contribution to course design and teaching
• Mentoring of students and junior researchers.
• Please note that this job description is not intended to be exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities outlined may be amended during appointment, in light of changing circumstances. In addition to these duties, the post holder will be expected to be flexible in their role as the CRiHSP´s capacity evolves.
• NUS offers highly competitive remuneration packages. The successful applicant will be offered an annual salary plus benefits commensurate with his or her qualifications, experience and expertise and will have access to travel support to disseminate research outcomes at international academic conferences.
• The position is a 1-year full-time appointment at the academic rank of Research Associate. An option to renew the appointment for subsequent years will depend on performance and continued funding for the project.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
• Applicants will be evaluated based on the following selection criteria:
• A recognized Master's degree in a relevant discipline (Health Services Research, Public Health, Statistics, Psychometrics, Psychology or a closely related field)
• Demonstrated experience in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and/or Item Response Theory (IRT) methods (essential) Demonstrated experience in programming languages such as R, Python, and familiarity with NLP tools and techniques (essential) Proven track record in handling and analyzing large healthcare dataset (essential) Track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed journals (essential) Researchers with existing research activities related to developing and using computerized adaptive (CAT) methods are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrated experience in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and/or Item Response Theory (IRT) methods (essential)
• Demonstrated experience in programming languages such as R, Python, and familiarity with NLP tools and techniques (essential)
• Proven track record in handling and analyzing large healthcare dataset (essential)
• Track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed journals (essential)
• Researchers with existing research activities related to developing and using computerized adaptive (CAT) methods are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Skills and Personal Attributes
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and spoken (essential) Strong leadership skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team (essential) Highly developed problem-solving skills and adept at managing complex datasets (essential) Ability to generate and maintain an independent stream of funding (essential) Outcome-orientation with excellent organizational and project management skills, and attention to detail (essential) Ability to work with culturally diverse populations (essential)
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and spoken (essential)
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team (essential)
• Highly developed problem-solving skills and adept at managing complex datasets (essential)
• Ability to generate and maintain an independent stream of funding (essential)
• Outcome-orientation with excellent organizational and project management skills, and attention to detail (essential)
• Ability to work with culturally diverse populations (essential)
• Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV (personal particulars, academic and employment history, full list of publications, contacts details of three (3) referees) and cover letter outlining their motivation and suitability for the project addressing each of the criteria outlined above to this job portal.
• Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is found.
• Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof Jose M Valderas at jmvalderas@nus.edu.sg .