Applications are invited for appointment as Research Assistant Professor (RAP)/ Post-doctoral Fellow (PDF) in the Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health (Ref.: 532152), to commence on 1 November 2025, on a two- to three-year fixed-term basis for RAP, or a one- to three-year temporary basis for PDF, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability.
Applicants should possess a PhD in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health or related disciplines. They must demonstrate an outstanding academic background with publication records in high-impact peer-reviewed journals. Essential qualifications include advanced expertise in developing AI applications using offline/online LLMs (e.g., GPT, Qwen, DeepSeek, Mistral, Llama, Gemma) within Linux environments. They must also demonstrate proficiency in clinical data annotation (brat), Python scripting, and integrating optimization techniques such as fine-tuning, Chain-of-Thought, and Retrieval Augmented Generation to enhance LLM outputs. Experience in creating oncology-specific NLP models with peer-reviewed publications is preferred. Strong quantitative skills are mandatory, including analysing large-scale databases (e.g., Hospital Authority EHR) using R/STATA/SAS and conducting cost-effectiveness analyses. Applicants must have a track record in securing competitive grants as principal investigators, managing IRB processes, patient recruitment, and media engagement through press releases. Exceptional bilingual communication skills (English/Chinese) and the ability to lead multidisciplinary collaborations are required. Those with significant post-doctoral experience and outstanding publications may be appointed as RAP.
The appointee will spearhead the development of interactive AI clinical decision support systems that translate LLM outputs into clinical management tools. This role involves designing and executing large-scale epidemiological studies using EHR data, overseeing clinical data annotation/processing from public and Hospital Authority sources, and leading patient recruitment/follow-up initiatives. Academic responsibilities include disseminating findings via publications and conferences, preparing IRB applications, drafting press releases, and driving grant applications from ideation to submission. The appointee is also expected to supervise research staff, manage project alignment, and undertake administrative duties as assigned. Enquiries about the duties of the post should be sent to Ms Audrey Ho at audreyh@hku.hk.
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. The appointment on fixed terms will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme at 15% of basic salary for RAP.
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date CV. Review of applications will start on June 19, 2025, and continue until September 4, 2025, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
