Senior Research Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the organization emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various communities. The organization is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The position of Senior Research Scientist is situated within the Health and Data Systems (HDS) team of the Institute for Disease Modeling (IDM), which is part of the Gates Foundation. The role focuses on applying advanced quantitative modeling techniques to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of health interventions. The candidate will work on both vertical programs, which involve designing and optimizing delivery models for disease-specific interventions, and broader health systems questions. This includes ensuring that the recommended intervention mixes are not only effective but also feasible and sustainable. The role requires engaging with internal teams and country partners to ensure that the models developed provide actionable insights for optimizing health delivery and investment strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Research Scientist will lead the design, development, and application of quantitative models aimed at assessing delivery strategies and optimizing the mix of health interventions, such as vaccines and mass drug administration. Responsibilities include generating actionable insights to inform strategic priorities and investment decisions through scenario analysis and systems modeling. The role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams and partners to co-develop relevant modeling questions and interpret findings for decision-making. The candidate will also advance methodological innovation by improving modeling frameworks and incorporating new data sources while ensuring scientific rigor and transparency. Additionally, the role requires integrating considerations of gender, equity, and vulnerability into modeling approaches, effectively communicating insights to diverse audiences, and exploring the application of AI and machine learning tools to enhance model efficiency and predictive power. International travel may be required as part of the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline such as health economics, decision science, applied mathematics, epidemiology, public health, or systems engineering, with significant coursework in quantitative methods. A minimum of five years of research experience in a related field is required, along with advanced expertise in quantitative modeling. Demonstrated experience in designing and applying mathematical, simulation, or optimization models for health intervention delivery is essential. Proficiency in programming languages, particularly R, and familiarity with optimization or simulation frameworks are also required. A strong foundation in systems and operations research, as well as an applied understanding of public health delivery systems, particularly in low- and middle-income contexts, is necessary. Experience in leading complex analytical projects and ensuring rigor and transparency in modeling work is also important.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Ph.D. in a relevant field such as health economics, decision science, applied mathematics, epidemiology, public health, or systems engineering. Candidates should have completed significant coursework in quantitative methods, which is critical for the advanced modeling tasks associated with this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of research experience in a related field. Candidates should have advanced quantitative modeling expertise, with a proven track record of designing and applying mathematical, simulation, or optimization models to guide health intervention delivery. Experience in leading complex analytical projects and managing data and model development pipelines is also essential.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the work and the need to communicate complex modeling insights effectively. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to low- and middle-income countries where health interventions are being implemented.

Additional Notes:
The salary range for this role is between $190,100 and $294,700 USD, with higher ranges for positions located in Seattle and Washington D.C. where the organization has offices. The salary for this role in these locations ranges from $209,100 to $324,100 USD. The organization aims to balance competitive pay with its mission-driven focus, and new hires typically fall within the range minimum and midpoint based on their skills and experience. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and the organization is committed to providing accommodations for candidates with disabilities during the application process. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.