Postdoctoral Scholar in Survival Analysis, Prediction Modeling, and Machine Learning

Description

Area:
Survival Analysis, Prediction Modeling, and Machine Learning

Duration:
Two years with possibility of extension

Start Date:

Upon recruitment of a suitable candidate

Salary: $60,000 per annum plus benefits

The Department of Medicine in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary is accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in Survival Analysis, Prediction Modeling, and Machine Learning.

The Interdisciplinary Chronic Disease Collaboration (ICDC) and the University of Calgary are accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in Survival Analysis, Prediction Modeling, and Machine Learning to be based in Calgary, Alberta. This position focuses on advanced prediction modeling using large-scale linked health data across Canada and Europe. The ICDC is a collaborative network of researchers located in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

ICDC trainees and junior faculty have previously published papers as first authors in prestigious journals including the Lancet, BMJ, JAMA, Annals of Internal Medicine, JASN, and Kidney International.

The position requires independent analysis and research. Working with the research team of Dr. Tyrone Harrison and Dr. Pietro Ravani, the fellow will contribute to a multi-jurisdictional study developing and validating a readmission risk prediction tool using contemporary statistical and machine learning approaches. The work includes survival modeling with competing risks, development of ensemble (super learner) models, and rigorous internal and external validation.

The project emphasizes evaluation of calibration, discrimination, and clinical utility of prediction models. We expect the position to be a two-year commitment, though alternate timelines may be considered. The expectation for the recruited scholar is to apply for external fellowship funding support at the university, provincial and national level.

• Lead statistical analyses for model development and validation
• Implement survival and machine learning models (e.g., Cox models, random survival forests, gradient boosting)
• Work with large, population-based health datasets
• Contribute to manuscripts and collaborative research outputs

• A PhD completed within the last three years in Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Statistics, Data Science, or a related field
• Strong academic record and a competitive publication list
• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing healthcare data, particularly routinely collected or administrative health data
• Advanced expertise in survival analysis (including competing risks) and epidemiologic methods
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R or Python) and methods for prediction modeling and causal inference
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, especially in scientific writing
• High level of effective organizational, time management, and personal initiative skills
• Background in kidney health or chronic disease research is considered an asset
• Experience with machine learning in healthcare
• Familiarity with prediction model validation and reporting frameworks
• Strong collaborative and communication skills
• Fluent in English and eligible to reside in Canada for the duration of the fellowship

The terms and conditions of employment are covered under the UCalgary and PDAC Collective Agreement.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here.

In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments () and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ().