Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Fellow, Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME)

Overview

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington is currently accepting applications for multiple full-time fellowship positions based in Seattle. These fellowships offer an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge global health research in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

About IHME 

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) is an independent research organization at the University of Washington (UW). Its mission is to deliver to the world timely, relevant, and scientifically valid evidence to improve health policy and practice. IHME carries out its mission through a range of projects within different research areas including the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD), Injuries, and Risk Factors; Future Health Scenarios; Cost Effectiveness and Efficiency; Resource Tracking; and Impact Evaluations.

IHME is committed to providing the evidence base necessary to help solve the world’s most important health problems. This requires creativity and innovation, which are cultivated by an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment that respects and appreciates differences, embraces collaboration, and invites the voices of all IHME team members.

About the GBD Fellowship Program 

The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Fellowship is a prestigious, cohort-based program at IHME at the University of Washington. Launching in 2026, this inaugural fellowship cohort is designed to cultivate the next generation of health metrics scientists who will tackle the world’s most pressing health challenges through innovative research and data analysis.

We are seeking intellectually curious, analytically skilled, and mission-driven individuals committed to the field of health metrics and advancing its research and methodologies. Ideal candidates will bring expertise from fields such as public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, economics, or quantitative social sciences, and will demonstrate a strong commitment to improving global health through rigorous data analysis and methodological innovation.

As a GBD Fellow, you will be embedded within IHME’s interdisciplinary research teams, where you will receive extensive training and your work will directly contribute to the production of GBD estimates and related scientific publications.  This is a two-year fellowship, with the possibility of a third year, subject to annual renewal based on performance and availability of funding. This structure is designed to support long-term professional growth and prepare fellows for impactful careers in academia, research, and global health policy.

Key Responsibilities 

• Actively acquire and apply new knowledge, methodologies, tools and adapt to evolving industry trends through continuous learning and participation in IHME’s comprehensive fellowship training.
• Participate in a structured professional development program including Boot Camp, Journal Club, Seminar Presentations, and Research Roundtables.
• Conduct independent and collaborative quantitative analyses across IHME’s research areas, contributing to the advancement of global health metrics.
• Design, implement, and refine statistical models and computational methods using R or Python, while continuously enhancing technical proficiency through structured training.
• Develop, manage, and quality-check complex datasets from diverse sources such as surveys, vital registration systems, censuses, and literature.
• Interpret analytical results, identify data and methodological issues, and effectively communicate findings to team leads and broader audiences.
• Draft and co-author peer-reviewed manuscripts, funding proposals, and conference presentations, supported by dedicated writing workshops and mentorship.
• Present research at internal seminars, professional conferences, and public forums, with opportunities to receive feedback and media training to enhance communication skills.
• Work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment to achieve research milestones and program objectives.
• Mentor junior staff and lead internal training sessions, contributing to a culture of knowledge sharing and collaborative learning.
• Engage in mentorship with senior researchers and take on leadership roles in training initiatives in later years of the program.

See GBD Fellowship webpage for additional details and information regarding upcoming webinar (July 30) : https://www.healthdata.org/gbd-fellowship

This position is a full-time two-year fellowship, with the possibility of a third year, subject to annual renewal based on performance and availability of funding. Total appointment in postdoctoral title not to exceed 5 years, including postdoctoral experience(s) at other institutions. Annual salary for this fellowship is: $105,000 (Year 1); $108,156 (Year 2); $112,488 (Year 3). Anticipated start date is March 30, 2026

Conditions of Employment 

• Weekend and evening work is sometimes required.
• This position is eligible for visa sponsorship through the University of Washington. Must be able to obtain a visa and be onsite by the first day of the fellowship.
• This position is located in Seattle, Washington, working in-person at the IHME office.
• This position is subject to the University of Washington’s five-year postdoctoral scholar appointment limit, inclusive of prior postdoctoral experience at other institutions.

Employee Benefits

As a fellow, you’ll have access to a generous benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid holidays, ample vacation and sick leave, retirement plans, transportation and fitness perks, tuition exemption, and more, which you can explore in detail here: Fellow Benefits

Qualifications

• PhD, MD, DPhil, MBBS, or foreign equivalent in epidemiology, demography, biostatistics, medical sciences, health policy, economics, mathematics, computer science, statistics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in health metrics, epidemiology, or related quantitative research.
• Strong programming skills in R or Python Experience with SQL will also be desired.
• Proven ability to conduct statistical modeling and troubleshoot complex code.
• Track record of scientific publication and effective communication of research findings.

Application Instructions
Submit your application through https://apply.interfolio.com/170109. Include a CV, research statement, and one letter of recommendation. In your research statement, please describe your interest in health metrics science and how your background aligns with the goals of the GBD Fellowship.

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews will be scheduled as materials are received. To ensure consideration for Spring 2026 cohort, apply by 08/18/25.