Postdoctoral Associate, HEEAT Lab

Duke University School of Nursing

Established in 1931, Duke University School of Nursing is a national leader in preparing nurse clinicians, scholars, and innovators who are transforming healthcare through excellence in education, research, and clinical practice. With more than 1,500 students, we offer a comprehensive range of programs, including the Master of Nursing (MN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD in Nursing. Our programs are designed to meet the evolving demands of today’s healthcare landscape, equipping graduates with rigorous training, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration to lead the future of nursing.

Our nursing program stands as a leader in healthcare education, earning #1 in the nation for Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs, #2 for Doctor of Nursing Practice, and #5 for Master’s programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. For over a decade, we’ve also been celebrated as a Best School for Men in Nursing by the American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN)—11 years and counting! These accolades reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity in preparing the next generation of nursing professionals.

Be You.

The HEEAT Lab (addressing Health Disparities through Engagement, Equity, Advocacy, and Trust) at the Duke University School of Nursing is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to join an interdisciplinary research team focused on health equity, implementation science, HIV prevention, population health, and dissemination science. You will contribute to ongoing federally funded studies while developing an independent program of scholarship aligned with the HEEAT Lab mission.

Working closely with community partners, health systems, policymakers, and interdisciplinary collaborators, you will conduct community-engaged research and help develop, test, and disseminate evidence-based solutions that reduce health disparities and improve population health. This position also provides mentorship, scientific collaboration, professional development, and opportunities to prepare for independent funding and leadership in health equity research.

Minimum Requirements:

• PhD, DrPH, or equivalent research doctorate in nursing, public health, behavioral sciences, epidemiology, sociology, psychology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience.
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills.
• Commitment to collaborative, community-engaged research.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with NIH-funded research.
• Peer-reviewed publications.
• Grant writing experience.
• Qualitative and/or quantitative methods expertise.
• Experience with implementation science.
• Experience using statistical or qualitative software.

Other Requirements:

• Full-time, one-year fellowship (renewable based on funding and outcomes).

This position is onsite. The work is performed on-site at the Duke University School of Nursing and includes community-based activities.

Be Bold.

Position Description:

• Conduct qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research.
• Contribute to federally funded and investigator-initiated research projects.
• Analyze data and prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.
• Assist with NIH and foundation grant development.
• Engage with community partners, advisory councils, and stakeholders.
• Present research at scientific conferences and community events.
• Develop dissemination products including reports, infographics, videos, and social media content.
• Mentor undergraduate, graduate, and junior trainees.
• Participate in lab meetings, writing groups, and professional development activities.
• Support research operations, regulatory activities, and strategic initiatives.

Expected Deliverables:

• Contribute to manuscripts.
• Contribute to grant submissions.
• Present at conferences.
• Develop an independent research agenda.
• Participate in mentorship activities.
• Advance HEEAT Lab initiatives.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

Choose Duke.

The HEEAT Lab is a nurse scientist-led research laboratory dedicated to advancing health equity through community-engaged research, implementation science, strategic communication, and innovative interventions. The lab partners with communities, health systems, policymakers, and interdisciplinary collaborators to develop, test, and disseminate evidence-based solutions that reduce health disparities and improve population health.

The position offers individualized mentorship, grant-writing experience, leadership development, conference presentations, interdisciplinary collaboration, and preparation for independent funding. HEEAT Lab core values are Engagement, Equity, Advocacy, and Trust.

This position is fully grant funded.

Job Code: 00003820 POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Job Level: 00

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.