Job Details

Post Doc Res Assoc

Position Number: 9929884
Location: Salt Lake City, United States
Position Type: Health - Physical & Occupational Therapy

Post Doc Res Assoc

Job Summary

The University of Utah Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scholar to join an interdisciplinary research team focused on improving health, participation, physical activity, and quality of life among individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. The successful candidate will contribute to federally funded research projects examining the efficacy, implementation, and dissemination of adapted physical activity and adapted aquatics interventions across the lifespan. This position offers opportunities to participate in all aspects of research including study design, participant recruitment, intervention implementation, data collection, quantitative and qualitative analysis, manuscript preparation, grant development, and dissemination of findings. The postdoctoral scholar will collaborate with faculty, clinicians, community partners, and trainees while contributing to ongoing clinical and community-based research initiatives.

The initial appointment is for one year and is renewable annually based on performance and funding availability. Funding is expected to be available for 3 years.

To apply please submit the following information combined into a single PDF: Cover letter (describing your interests and motivation for seeking this post-doctoral scholar position), Resume / CV, Names / contact information of two references.

Questions about the position or required materials can be sent to Dr. Lisa Mische Lawson, lisa.l@utah.edu

Responsibilities

Contribute to the design, implementation, and management of NIH-funded and other externally funded research projects.
Coordinate and conduct research involving individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities.
Lead and support participant recruitment, enrollment, retention, and follow-up activities.
Collect, manage, and analyze quantitative and qualitative research data.
Conduct statistical analyses using software such as SPSS, or similar platforms.
Conduct qualitative analyses using accepted methodologies and software (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti).
Assist with intervention delivery and evaluation of adapted aquatics and physical activity programs.
Monitor study fidelity and ensure adherence to research protocols, IRB requirements, and regulatory standards.
Support data quality assurance, data management, and reporting activities.
Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication and present findings at professional conferences.
Assist with grant writing and development of future funding applications.
Mentor graduate and undergraduate students involved in research projects.
Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary investigators, clinicians, community organizations, and stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications
Postdoc

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Adapted Physical Activity, Human Development, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience conducting both quantitative and qualitative research.
Experience working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and/or other developmental disabilities.
Training or experience in adapted aquatics instruction, programming, research, or intervention delivery.
Strong knowledge of research methodology, study design, and human subjects protections.
Evidence of scholarly productivity, including peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Strong organizational and project management skills.

Preferences
Preferences

Experience conducting or coordinating clinical trials, behavioral interventions, or community-based intervention studies.
Experience with NIH-funded research projects.
Expertise in advanced quantitative analytical methods and mixed-methods research.
Experience using qualitative analysis software
Experience preparing manuscripts, grant proposals, and research reports.
Record of successful collaboration with healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, or disability-serving agencies.
Certification in recreational therapy, adapted aquatics, adaptive physical activity, or related fields is desirable.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN46621B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary:
Department: 00204 - Occupational/Recreational Therapy
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $60,000-$70,000 / year depending on the experience
Close Date: 12/28/2026
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/211545