The Health Affairs Institute at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a (Hybrid) Research Associate Analyst.

About the Opportunity

The Health Affairs Institute within the WVU Health Sciences Center provides organizational leadership for collaborative activities involving the Health Sciences Center, the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) and other partners. These include, among others, providing data analytic support, program evaluation expertise, technical assistance, and project management support for the DoHS and other partners. With office locations in both Morgantown and Charleston, the Health Affairs Institute (HAI) employs over 50 full-time staff and engages numerous faculty and staff from other units of the University to fulfill its service mission to the state.

The Research Associate in Health Data Analytics is a key participant in the State-University partnership between the West Virginia University Health Sciences Center and the DoHS. Overarching responsibilities include working with the state to leverage their data and support analytic and policy needs, conducting relevant policy and evaluation research, participating in interdisciplinary research and evaluation teams, and providing oversight of associated data analysts. The successful Research Associate in Health Data Analytics will be data-driven with strong analytical skills and a proven record of finding insights in disparate data and effectively communicating that information to drive decision making.

What You'll Do

• Utilizes expertise in machine learning and advanced statistical methods to analyze data sources such as Medicaid Claims to generate evidence for policy interventions.
• Provide guidance to teams in optimal and proper use if Artificial Intelligence in data analytics
• Oversees/provides mentorship other analysts as directed by the Director – Center for Measurement and Health Data Analytics
• Oversees the analyst training program by identifying training gaps/requirements and collaborates with the HAI Program Development and Management Office (PDMO) to procure and/or develop and lead training modules as directed by the Center for Measurement and Health Data Analytics.
• Leads data risk assessments to mitigate and/or expose data quality and/or security issues in collaboration with the PDMO and Director of Health Information.
• Identifies and troubleshoots unanticipated data problems or unexpected results and provides solutions to resolve identified concerns.
• Provides consultation, as needed, regarding optimal statistical methods and analysis designs.
• Performs advanced statistical analysis with guidance from the Director – Center for Measurement and Health Data Analytics
• Provides consultation and support for HAI project team members in data analysis and visualization best practices, and new and current technology.
• Leads the development of detailed reports that can be readily understood, using best practices in data visualization and statistics.
• Participates in high-level stakeholder meetings to understand stakeholder priorities and develop potential solutions as required.
• Develops quality assurance processes and protocols in collaboration with the PDMO.
• Conducts and overseas predictive data analytics using machine learning
• Conducts and overseas geo-spatial analytics
• Serves as an HAI representative and liaison to the DoHS for the planning and performance of projects, programs and activities involving health data analytics and program evaluation.
• Facilitates communication and efficient collaboration between research partners at the Health Affairs Institute and the staff of the DoHS.
• Ensures that data analytic and research/evaluation activities are compliant with Health Affairs Institute and University-level policies for the responsible conduct of research as well as federal, and state policies.
• Provides consultation to faculty and government partners regarding preparation of research proposals, design and methodology, data analytics and interpretation of results.
• Identifies opportunities for potential collaborations between the Health Sciences Center and the DoHS.
• Prepares reports as required by the University, the Health Sciences Center administration, and external agencies. Communicates results of analytic projects and program evaluations with relevant staff of the DoHS.
• Conducts or directs special projects as assigned. Acts in other matters and capacities as delegated by the Center for Measurement and Health Data Analytics for the Health Affairs Institute.

• PhD in health-related field required.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in the folllowing:
  • Record of research and achievement in health outcomes and policy research (health services research, public health informatics, health policy, clinical outcomes) as evidenced by publications and a sustained research program.
  • Experience in using Artificial Intelligence in data analytics
  • Experience and knowledge in predictive analytics using machine learning
  • Experience conducting research/evaluation within the academic and governmental sectors.
  • Good knowledge in Medicaid Claims data and adequate knowledge in medical coding.
  • Experience in conducting in-house training

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge and experience in utilizing large health databases for research, program evaluation, and policy development.
• Extensive knowledge in machine learning
• Extensive knowledge in using Artificial Intelligence in data analytics
• Ability to project and maintain a positive and collaborative attitude.
• Record of accomplishments in the area of health data analytics.
• Strong ability to communicate goals, methods, and results of research initiatives with key stakeholders.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of standard software packages such as SAS or R
• Good knowledge in handling mortality data
• Experience working with Medicaid Claims data
• Training and facilitation skills
• Strong understanding of Data Security and Compliance – particularly with HIPAA and PHI data access and storage

• Valid Driver’s License and ability to travel on an intermittent basis if/when required.

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.