Advanced Implementation Scientist

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute ( FPG) is one of the nation's oldest and largest multidisciplinary centers devoted to the study of children and their families. As one of the nation's leading child development research centers, we generate scientific evidence, inform policies, and support practices to promote positive developmental and educational outcomes for children of all backgrounds and abilities from infancy to adolescence.

FPG has a particular focus on the study of vulnerable populations and those who have special needs. In addition, FPG is committed to creating a place where everyone is welcome, supported, and has the resources they need to grow and thrive regardless of identity, origin, or difference in circumstances as well as engaging in work that addresses critical issues related to educational inequality and barriers to inclusion that impact children's wellbeing.

Approximately 280 researchers, implementation and technical assistance specialists, staff, and students work on more than 75 projects related to developmental disabilities; physical, social, and emotional health; early care and education; early intervention and special education, prevention science, and more to address important issues facing all children and families. Our work spans across disciplines from education and psychology to social work and public health.

We collaborate with researchers across campus and throughout the nation. At FPG, transdisciplinary collaboration is a way to leverage collective expertise for comprehensive and relevant research and outreach, and is embodied in our motto: Advancing knowledge to transform children's lives.

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

The Advanced Implementation Scientist will build an applied implementation research portfolio aligned with the vision, mission, and research agenda of the National Implementation Research Network ( NIRN) within the Frank Porter Graham ( FPG) Child Development Institute (https://nirn.fpg.unc.edu/) at UNC-Chapel Hill. The selected individual will be responsible for designing, leading, managing, and executing implementation science research studies and initiatives across a diversity of sectors, including education, public health, and healthcare. Key functions also include identification of implementation research opportunities, proposal development, manuscript writing, presenting at professional conferences, collaborations across and outside of UNC, and funder relationship building.

The Advanced Implementation Scientist will work to build implementation research capacity within NIRN in collaboration with the NIRN Co-Directors and will report to one of the NIRN Co-Directors.

The National Implementation Research Network is a multidisciplinary team with the mission to contribute to implementation science through practical implementation and practice-based research, to solve real-world problems and improve outcomes across the spectrum of human services.

In addition to membership in NIRN, the position is also expected to be a member of the community of FPG Investigators. Expectations include regular participation in institutional activities and professional service in areas of relevance to FPG's mission. This position will also have opportunities for potential for engagement with others within and outside of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.

* Candidate must have knowledge of implementation science and applied research methodologies, and previous implementation research experience.

* Previous use of mixed methods is a required.

* Must have the desire to learn and a commitment to excellence.

* Must have multi-sector experience (e.g., public health, healthcare, education, or other).

Prefer a PhD in Implementation Science, Early Childhood, Education, Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, Healthcare, or related disciplines with at least five years' experience as an implementation researcher.

Preference will be given to candidates with:
(a) strong evidence of knowledge and skills related to the Active Implementation Frameworks and/or other implementation frameworks,
(b) evidence of publications demonstrating implementation science knowledge,
success in obtaining funding to support major initiatives or research,
(d) established track record of collaborating and connecting with internal and external partners, and
(e) strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to be flexible.

The ability to participate in a collegial environment that fosters ongoing collaboration and teamwork with a diversity of colleagues and stakeholders is desired.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.