Research Scientist

The Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research (CEPR), Cancer Research & Analytics, Cancer Care Alberta (CCA), Alberta Health Services (AHS) invites applications for a Research Scientist position (health economics, health equity, implementation science). The primary purpose of the Research Scientist role is to initiate and sustain an innovative research program aligned with CCA’s 2024-2029 Strategic Roadmap, with the goal of generating new knowledge that will help improve outcomes and experiences for people facing cancer. We are seeking a Research Scientist with a portfolio focused on health equity, health economics, and/or implementation science related to cancer care. This permanent AHS position offers the opportunity to initiate, lead and participate in multi- and inter-disciplinary research, with approximately 80% of time protected for research that aligns broadly with the areas of focus identified by CCA, its staff and physicians/clinicians. The remaining time will be dedicated to supervising and mentoring trainees and CCA team members, as well as participating in broader strategic efforts. The Research Scientist will be a member of the CEPR Department embedded within Cancer Research and Analytics, CCA. CCA is responsible for delivering treatment and care to people diagnosed with cancer in Alberta via its two tertiary cancer centres (Arthur JE Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Calgary and the Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton), four Regional Cancer Centres and 11 Community Cancer Centres. Serving a province of almost five million people, CCA is the custodian of cancer data, including the Alberta Cancer Registry and all treatment-related data from the provincial Connect Care electronic medical record, with robust mechanisms in place to identify, curate and disclose data elements required to conduct population-based cancer research in Alberta.

Research Scientists are responsible for planning, leading and advising on scientifically sound research, using innovative strategies to solve complex scientific problems related to the provision of cancer care in an area of focus aligned with their area of expertise. A significant aspect of the work involves designing research studies, obtaining external funding, executing funded projects and disseminating findings in peer-reviewed journals. There is also an expectation that a CCA Research Scientist will translate and disseminate their findings more widely, with the purpose of supporting and influencing policy development and practice changes when appropriate. CCA maintains strong collaborations and partnerships with Alberta’s research-intensive universities. This position will be based in Calgary, AB and the successful candidate will be eligible for consideration for an academic adjunct appointment in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary, as well as memberships of the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute and the O’Brien Institute for Public Health. It is expected that the candidate will start at the adjunct assistant professor level. These positions will facilitate the Research Scientist’s applications for Tri-Council funding and other national research funding agencies. The Research Scientist position will be accommodated in the Arthur JE Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre; a new, innovative, state-of-the-art, 120,000m2 facility designed intentionally to integrate research with treatment and care across the cancer continuum. The successful candidate will be supplied with office space in the Arthur Child, computer equipment and space for trainees/staff, and will have access to local grant funding opportunities, including those supported by a major capital campaign designed to advance treatment, care and research at the Arthur Child.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in Epidemiology, Population and Public Health, Biostatistics, Health Economics, Implementation Science or a related discipline, with at least two to three years of experience in a health-related research setting beyond doctoral training. The preferred applicant will have experience of working in a cancer or health systems research environment, along with an emerging track-record of successful research demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications and research funding commensurate with stage of career. Expectations for the current position include eligibility for an adjunct academic appointment at the assistant professor level, the establishment of a sustainable, externally funded research program, and active engagement with other research and clinical/operational teams within CCA. Enquiries regarding this position can be sent to Dr Paula Robson, Scientific Director, Cancer Research & Analytics, Cancer Care Alberta - paula.robson@albertahealthservices.ca.

As required.

As required.