Post-Doctoral, VIPBG

The Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics (VIPBG; vipbg.vcu.edu), affiliated with the Department of Psychiatry in the School of Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond, Virginia, invites applications for a full‑time postdoctoral researcher position available immediately.

VIPBG is an interdisciplinary institute that brings together researchers with backgrounds from statistical and molecular genetics, epidemiology, psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience, all focused on understanding how genetic and environmental factors impact the development of behavioral phenotypes and complex traits, particularly psychiatric and substance use disorders. Current funded projects include genetic studies of schizophrenia, major depression, anxiety and panic disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, and the development of statistical methods.

Faculty are at the forefront of developing methods and software for statistical genetic analyses of complex traits, including extensions of structural equation models to data from twins and relatives to resolve competing models of causation and individual variation. New methods for analyzing the contributions of measured genetic and environmental factors to individual differences in behavioral and psychiatric outcomes are continuously being developed, tested, and applied to many genomic data types.

The postdoctoral research education program is tailored to the experience and needs of the research fellow, with an emphasis on tutorials and collaborative research. The development of research skills is the primary focus, with an emphasis on broad exposure to psychiatric and behavioral genetics methods and detailed study in one or more areas that would lead to publications and grant proposals.

The core of post‑doctoral training is supervised research under the mentorship of experienced scientists. As trainees may have a variety of degrees (PhD or MD), their research training may be supplemented by formal coursework or directed reading. In consultation with their primary advisor, trainees will develop an individualized training program tailored to their needs. Trainees are encouraged to write first‑author scientific papers on their research and develop grant proposals.

• Behavioral genetics, deep phenotyping, health disparities, big data science
• Advanced statistical and methodological techniques and development
• Presenting research at national and/or international meetings
• Preparing and publishing manuscripts in peer‑reviewed academic journals
• Contributing as a co‑author to manuscripts led by other members of the research team
• Grant writing and development
• Interdisciplinary and collaborative research

All applicants must have completed their M.D. or Ph.D. in a related field (e.g., Mathematics, Biostatistics, Psychology, Psychiatry, Biology, Genetics, Epidemiology) at the time of entry into the program and be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency (Green Card) status at the time of appointment.

Preference will be given to persons who meet the following criteria:

• History of peer‑reviewed publications
• Experience interpreting findings in a developmental context
• Demonstration of excellent written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated skills in the design and execution of research aims related to psychiatric, substance use, or behavioral outcomes
• Proven skills and experience in psychiatric epidemiology, behavioral genetics, psychology, or a related field
• Strong background in quantitative analytical skills, preferably experienced with R and data science best practices
• Ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team
• Commitment to thorough, rigorous research and a thoughtful approach to problem solving

Fellows receive an annual stipend set by the National Institutes of Health based on years of related experience. Scholars are also provided with health insurance, tuition and fees, and research‑related support including travel funds to at least one annual professional meeting, statistical…