SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION ANALYST

POSITION TITLE:  Scientific Information Analyst (SIA) LOCATION:  Bethesda, MD

 

Summary:

 

The project goal is to standardize the base definition for each of 400+ disease categories for use where standard disease coding code definitions are used consistently across all NIH to enable more accurate financial reporting of grant funds per disease category.  A new computer system powered by “Collexis” searches the words in each grant or project description (title, abstract and specific aims) to create a “project fingerprint”.  The terms are matched with concepts from the thesaurus.

 

Responsibilities:

 

· The Scientific Information Analyst (SIA) works closely with the new system to create the preliminary fingerprints (disease category definitions) which involves the intellectual analysis of the disease category for subject content and the application of appropriate concepts and qualifiers drawn from the thesauri used, which include MeSH, CRISP, ICD-10, and NCI, plus unique concepts, e.g. rare diseases.  The categories are then reviewed by experts in advance of face-to-face meetings. In the face to face fingerprinting sessions, the SIA will help identify additional related concepts from the information index and resolve concept/thesaurus questions.

· Implement changes suggested by the experts and work with both the data analysts and the experts in the fingerprinting sessions to refine the category fingerprint, preparing it for final review.  A SIA may work on up to six different category fingerprints at any particular time, and will also make sure the Thesaurus is up to date and able to provide proper information for the categories.  The SIA will add terms where deemed necessary by the experts. Designate the concepts which identify the main point of a disease category into an auxiliary disease category fingerprint.  This fingerprint will then become the starting point where experts begin their efforts to define the most appropriate disease category fingerprint.

 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

 Minimum of 5 years experience working in a similar role. Previous experience in scientific coding/indexing. Working knowledge of scientific thesaurus or other structured vocabularies. Previous experience with MeSH or CRISP information systems desired.  Training on theses systems will be provided. Ability to derive relevant concepts from source vocabularies. Ability to manage a multidisciplinary team. Organized and deadline driven. Experience using MS Project desired. Requires a Masters degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Genetics, Public Health or related science with a preferred MD or PhD.  PhD level candidate preferred. 

 

Resumes submitted without a salary requirement will not be considered

No relocation assistance is available for this position

U.S. citizenship is mandated by the federal client

No Agencies Please

EOE