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Discovering the causes of cancer and the means of prevention

Environmental or Occupational Epidemiologist for Radiation Epidemiology Branch


The Radiation Epidemiology Branch (REB) has a broad-based research program to identify, understand, and quantify the risk of cancer in populations exposed to medical, occupational, or environmental sources of ionizing and non-ionizing (e.g., ultraviolet, radio-frequency, or extremely low-frequency) radiation. Overall, the REB mission is threefold: to characterize and quantify the carcinogenic effects of radiation; to improve our understanding of molecular mechanisms of radiation carcinogenesis; and to address issues of public concern about radiation exposure. Investigations of environmental radiation exposures conducted by REB focus on populations exposed to ionizing radiation from accidents at nuclear plants and fallout, and to non-ionizing ultraviolet solar radiation. Radiation-exposed worker populations studied include medical radiation and nuclear workers. REB studies are a major source of data used to develop recommendations or regulations for radiation protection by national and international committees or government agencies, respectively. REB researchers provide advice on radiation-related cancer risks, public health issues and radiologic terrorism to government agencies, professional organizations, and academic institutions.

Applicants must have a doctorate in epidemiology, environmental or occupational health or equivalent qualifications, relevant experience after the doctorate in cancer and/or radiation epidemiology and excellent computational skills. A strong record of publications demonstrating an ability to collaborate effectively and to lead independent research is required. The caliber of scientific journals in which the applicant has published will also be carefully considered. The candidates will be evaluated on evidence of specific accomplishments; creativity and novelty of scientific vision; sound analytic knowledge and skills; collaborative teamwork, especially across disciplines; ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and complete projects in a timely fashion; productivity, as measured by an upward career trajectory of the number of first-author publications; evidence of effective and efficient leadership of new projects; and skill at effective oral and written scientific communication. Experience working in studies with molecular and genetic components would be advantageous.

Salary is commensurate with research experience and accomplishments, and a full Civil Service package of benefits (including retirement, health insurance, life insurance, and a Thrift Savings Plan) is available.

Interested individuals should send a complete application to The application should include:

1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Summary of experience and research accomplishments
4. Statement of research interests
5. Copies of up to five publications or reprints.
6. Three letters of reference, including at least one reference from a collaborator in epidemiology, environmental or occupational health or radiation research studies in related disciplines. Reference letters must be sent directly from the individual writing the reference to the email address listed above.

Any questions can also be directed to the email address above. The closing date for applications is September 15, 2014.

More information about this job announcement and about research programs in the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics and the Radiation Epidemiology Branch are available at and