Research Data Analyst

Department Overview

The Planetary Child Health & Enterics Observatory (Plan-EO) is an interdisciplinary research initiative and living evidence system founded and coordinated by Dr. Josh Colston and based at the UVA School of Medicine. Its aim is to systematically model, quantify, predict, and project the epidemiology and burden of enteric infectious diseases and their risk factors across low-resource regions of the globe, and make these findings freely accessible to the research and stakeholder community.

The Plan-EO research team integrates epidemiological data from broad-spectrum molecular diagnostics with climate and environmental data products derived from Earth observations (satellites), nationally representative household surveys, and other data sources. The team brings together expertise from hydrology, bioinformatics, software and systems engineering, knowledge management, and communications.

Plan-EO is a member of the SPRINGS Project, an international research consortium supported by the EU’s Horizon Europe program.

Position Summary

The Research Data Analyst will serve in a key leadership role on Plan-EO, advancing cutting-edge research on climate-sensitive infectious diseases in the tropics and sub-tropics. This position requires a highly dynamic and motivated individual who is invested in the project’s vision and capable of representing the initiative at international forums.

The role includes significant leadership responsibility and autonomy in supervising scientific and operational activities, supporting interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributing to grant development. The successful candidate will gain hands-on exposure to managing complex research initiatives and funding submissions.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the research team across the full research lifecycle including exploratory analysis, statistical modeling, manuscript development, and dissemination
• Develop and oversee data processing infrastructure and workflows, including front-end dashboard deployment and back-end computing environments
• Lead knowledge management efforts and support Plan-EO as a living evidence system
• Ensure responsible research conduct and data stewardship in collaboration with international partners
• Represent the project at conferences, workshops, and stakeholder engagements to strengthen visibility and partnerships
• Mentor undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers, supporting professional development opportunities
• Contribute to preparation and submission of grant proposals across multiple funding sources

Minimum Qualifications

Education:
Master of Public Health (MPH) or equivalent graduate degree in quantitative or health sciences
Graduate-level training in biostatistics, epidemiological methods, and responsible conduct of human subjects research

Experience:
4+ years of relevant experience, including analytical work in an international research environment

Skills and Competencies:

• Proficient in one of these statistical software's R or Python and either ArcGIS or QGIS.
• Ability to synthesize scientific evidence for diverse audiences using citation tools (e.g., Zotero, EndNote)
• Excellent organizational, communication, and teamwork skills with strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated initiative and ownership of work
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of equitable global research partnerships
• Familiarity with project management and communication tools (e.g., Slack, Notion)
• Fluency in English and proficiency in a second widely spoken language

Preferred Qualifications

Education / Experience / Skills:

• Knowledge of Spanish
• Familiarity with AI-enabled research tools (e.g., Elicit, Antigravity, Perplexity)
• Additional experience with Stata

Physical Demands

This is primarily a sedentary role involving extensive computer use. Occasional travel may be required for meetings and programs.

Salary Range

$75,000 – $85,000, commensurate with education and experience

Position Type & Work Location

This is an exempt-level, benefited position.

This position is a 2-year term appointment, with continuation dependent on departmental need and funding.

The role is based in Charlottesville, VA and is eligible for a hybrid work schedule (3 days per week on-Grounds), with additional on-site presence as needed, in accordance with UVA policy.

About UVA and the Community

The University of Virginia is a world-class institution founded by Thomas Jefferson, combining rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and a strong commitment to community. Charlottesville offers a high quality of life, blending vibrant culture, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming community.

Application Timeline

Review of applications will begin after the posting has been active for at least five (5) days.

Additional Requirements

This position will not sponsor applicants requiring visa support.

How to Apply

Please apply online throughOnlineand search for R0081994 . Complete the application and upload the followingrequiredmaterials:

Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on theUVA Internal Careers website.

• Cover letter

• Resume

Reference Check Process

Reference checks will be completed by UVA’s third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.

Contact

• For questions about the application process, please contact Bill Crane at Xer5ff@virginia.edu

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.