Postdoctoral Research Associate in Clinical Psychology

The RESPECT Lab at Purdue University is recruiting a post-doctoral scholar to support NIH- and CDC-funded research under the supervision of Principal Investigator, Dr. Jennifer Brown. Research in the RESPECT Lab focuses on the development and evaluation of interventions to improve substance use and infectious disease outcomes. Work in the lab also incorporates implementation science approaches to improve substance use and infectious disease outcomes. The successful candidate will have opportunities to be involved with several currently funded studies to develop and evaluate new intervention approaches to reduce substance use. More information about the RESPECT Lab and our active studies can be found at the RESPECT Lab website.  Competitive applicants will have a background in clinical or counseling psychology, public health, or related discipline as well as expertise in one or more of the following areas: randomized clinical trials methodology, delivery of substance use interventions (e.g., motivational interviewing), longitudinal data analyses, and/or qualitative methodology. Expertise in any of these areas will be beneficial; applicants are not expected to have expertise in all of these areas.

The post-doctoral scholar will have the opportunity to conduct analyses, lead publications and presentations, and mentor learners at multiple levels, as well as to apply for external funding (e.g., F32), if desired.  Supervised hours in support of clinical licensure are also possible. Candidates will be joining a large lab with more than 15 paid staff, graduate students, and undergraduate students who all work closely together. Applicants should also have a demonstrated commitment to supporting an inclusive laboratory environment, ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and strong organizational and time management skills.

As part of their job duties, the candidate will participate in a variety of professional development activities, including activities with the College of Health and Human Sciences, leading publications and presentations, and participating in laboratory-wide and individual mentorship on building a career relevant to development and evaluation of interventions to address substance use and infectious diseases.

The position is 40 hours per week with a possible duration of two years, contingent upon successful performance in the first year. Longer-term employment is possible pending additional funding. Application review begins immediately, with start date as early as July 1, 2026. 

Experience

Preferred (any of the following):

• Prior experience in delivery of interventions to address substance use disorders
• Experience conducting randomized clinical trials
• Experience with any type of advanced data analysis, including longitudinal analyses
• Experience conducting and analyzing qualitative data

• Strong organizational and time management skills with emphasis on accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to efficiently multitask and meet deadlines

• Ability to work in-person on Purdue’s main campus in West Lafayette, IN

Education

The candidate must have a Ph.D. in psychological sciences, public health, human development, or a closely related field. Preferred candidates will have a Ph.D. in clinical or counseling psychology.