Research Assistant Professor

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Nebraska; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Nebraska seeks a Research Assistant Professor to conduct hypothesis-driven analysis, present findings, and develop scholarship in substance use research. The role offers collaboration opportunities within the RDAR Center and requires a Ph.D. with a strong background in quantitative methods and data management. Applicants should demonstrate skills in providing insights from large datasets and experience with NIH grants. This full-time position has a flexible start date around April 2026.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent required.
• Experience with large longitudinal datasets.
• Knowledge of NIH grant development.
• Experience with survey design and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hypothesis-driven analysis of RDAR Center data.
• Present findings and publish results.
• Develop areas of scholarship in substance use research.
• Seek and compete for extramural funding.
• Collaborate with Center members and the broader university community.

Skills

Knowledge of statistical techniques

Experience with data management

Ability to work collaboratively

Team collaboration

Research methods

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent

Post-doc experience in social sciences

Tools

Analytical tools

Survey design methods

Job description

Position Summary

The Rural Drug Addiction Research (RDAR) Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) seeks to hire a Research Assistant Professor. This scholar will work closely with Center leadership, including the co-directors of the research core (Longitudinal Network Core [LNC]). The individual in this position will be responsible for hypothesis‑driven analysis of RDAR Center data, with outcomes from these being presented and published in key outlets. This individual will also have the opportunity to develop distinct areas of scholarship in substance use research and compete for extramural funding.

The RDAR Center, funded by NIH, brings together basic and health scientists across disciplines that span synapse to society. In doing so, it addresses the causes and consequences of substance use and misuse and the assessment, prevention, and treatment of this critical public health challenge. The individual in the position will also have the opportunity to develop collaborations with other members of the Center and the broader university community.

This is a full‑time, 12‑month position with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon performance and funding. Anticipated start date is April 1, 2026, but is flexible depending on availability. Learn more about the Rural Drug Addiction Research Center at https://rdar.unl.edu/.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hypothesis‑driven analysis of RDAR Center data.
• Present findings and publish results in key outlets.
• Develop distinct areas of scholarship in substance use research.
• Seek and compete for extramural funding.
• Collaborate with Center members and the broader university community.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent.
• Knowledge of statistical techniques and related cutting‑edge methods.
• Experience with data management and analytical tools.
• Experience with survey design.
• Ability to work collaboratively in teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent with post‑doctoral research experience in social sciences or related field.
• Experience working with large longitudinal datasets related to substance use or adjacent areas.
• Knowledge of research compliance needs.
• Experience with NIH grant development and submissions.

Location

Lincoln, NE

Application Procedure

Click “Apply for this Job” and complete the faculty information form. Upload the following required documents:

• Cover letter outlining your research interests, relevant experience, and career goals.
• PDFs of 1-2 manuscripts published in peer‑reviewed journals. Combine into a single document and attach as “Other Document.”
• Contact information for three professional references.

Application Review Date: 03/04/2026

EEO Statement

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.