Investigator - Associate Research Scientist (Full Time and Part Time)

Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation; Louisville (KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation seeks a motivated Investigator - Associate Research Scientist in Louisville, Kentucky. This role involves managing independent research projects related to alcohol, tobacco, and public health policy. Candidates must demonstrate strong project management, proposal development, and relevant publication experience. Some telecommuting may be possible based on project needs. PIRE offers an opportunity to work on impactful studies and contribute to public dialogue through rigorous research.

Qualifications

• Strong skills in project management, research collaboration, and proposal development.
• A track record of relevant publications.
• Experience writing grant and/or proposal applications for NIH, CDC, and other funding agencies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage independent research projects, including proposal development and grant writing.
• Design and conduct evaluation studies with mixed-methods approaches.
• Collaborate with PIRE scientists on relevant projects and disseminate findings.
• Seek and secure independent funding (NIH, CDC, etc.) and manage project budgets.
• Provide technical assistance and training to states and communities.

Skills

Project management

Research collaboration

Proposal development

Grant writing

Job description

Investigator - Associate Research Scientist (Full Time and Part Time) - (2026-10)

PIRE, a nonprofit organization focused on applied science research, seeks early‑career investigators to join our Louisville, Kentucky Center. The role supports a portfolio of studies on alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, public health policy, health disparities, and program evaluation.

Position Summary

Our scientists examine risk factors and outcomes at both individual and structural levels, with a focus on informing public policy and understanding the specific impacts of policies on health. Studies employ diverse methodologies—including qualitative and quantitative methods and innovative sampling—to explore the effects of policy on health and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage independent research projects, including proposal development and grant writing.
• Design and conduct evaluation studies, incorporating mixed‑methods approaches and sampling techniques.
• Collaborate with other PIRE scientists on mutually relevant projects and disseminate findings through peer‑reviewed journal articles, reports, and professional presentations.
• Seek and secure independent funding (NIH, CDC, SAMHSA, universities, foundations) and manage project budgets.
• Provide technical assistance and training to states and communities on health‑related program implementation.

Qualifications

We invite a CV and letter of introduction from early‑career investigators who have:

• Strong skills in project management, research collaboration, and proposal development.
• A track record of relevant publications.
• Experience writing grant and/or proposal applications for NIH, CDC, and other funding agencies.

Current or recent funding from NIH, CDC, or other federal agencies is desired but not required. Successful applicants will be expected to pursue their own research while collaborating with PIRE scientists. Employment is contingent upon securing funding and is supported by startup funding, administrative assistance, and collaborative scientific support.

Location

Louisville, Kentucky. Some telecommuting may be possible depending on project requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity / EEO

PIRE is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer. PIRE is a diverse community devoted to the promotion and acceptance of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, gender, physical ability, or veteran status. We are committed to employ and advance individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, and to treat qualified individuals without discrimination. PIRE will provide reasonable accommodations in the application process upon request, in compliance with applicable laws. Contact Human Resources for assistance: [e-mail].

Contact

For more information, contact the Louisville Center Director, Melissa Abadi, Ph.D. ([e-mail]) or the Site Administrator, Patti Hokanson ([e-mail]). We also have positions at our five other locations: Berkeley, CA; Albuquerque, NM; Calverton, MD; and Chapel Hill, NC.