Research Scientist/Data Quality Liaison
Summary: Perform functions and duties aimed at assessing and improving the quality of a follow-up data system for newborns that test positive in a statewide population screening program, in addition to complying with the requirements of a pilot disease surveillance system.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: This full-time position is supported by a three-year, Centers for Disease Control and Surveillance (CDC) grant. The incumbent will work with staff at the California Genetic Disease Screening Program to assess and improve the quality of data collected as part of a large scale, on-going, short-term follow-up data collection system for newborns that have screen–positive screening test result.
Analysis of existing data will focus on identifying weaknesses in the data system, including data entry delays, data entry errors, incomplete data, and inconsistent data. Our goal is to decrease the frequency and type of data entry problems with an emphasis on standardizing the responses to the questions on our data collection instrument. We will accomplish this by working closely with follow-up center staff throughout the state and conduct data training sessions, as needed.
In addition to strong analytical and data mining skills, incumbent will be responsible for designing and producing statewide and center-specific reports; conducting data linkages with other data systems (e.g. California vital statistic data). Other duties require the preparation of bi-yearly case reports as part of a multi-state surveillance program.
The incumbent will be required to assist with the establishment of a Project Advisory Committee and work closely with follow-center staff to clarify data inconsistencies and conduct training sessions focused on enhancing the quality fo the data. Other duties include conducting comprehensive literature reviews, preparation and presentation of data for scientific meetings, for publication in scientific journals, and may be required to represent the project at national, state and local meetings. Some travel will be required.
Qualifications: Masters degree in public health, biostatistics, epidemiology, or related field, with experience working with large data sets. Data analysis skills using SQL and SAS required. Disease surveillance and data linkage experience desirable; knowledge of the principals of public health program evaluation and population screening.
Other Skills and Qualities: Comfortable using Microsoft Word, Powerpoint and Excel. Ability to assume initiative very important; develop and maintain effective working, professional relationships and able to work well in a team environment. Good organizational skills and detail oriented.
Compensation: Starting salary $66,893, plus benefit package.
Location – Richmond, California
Work Environment: Office Setting
Contact: Lisa Feuchtbaum, Dr.P.H., M.P.H.
(510) 412-1455
Email: Lisa.Feuchtbaum@cdph.ca.gov
