Jennifer Pearson

The University of Nevada Reno School of Public Health is offering a fully funded PhD position in Social and Behavioral Health, starting Fall 2026. This opportunity is supported by a new grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse and provides a four-year Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) covering a monthly stipend and full tuition. The research focus is on tobacco and cannabis product regulations, public health outcomes, and behavioral responses to advertising and risk exposure, particularly among young adults who smoke cigarillos. The successful candidate will join Dr. Jennifer Pearson’s research group, contributing to data collection, analysis, and manuscript writing. The position includes a weekly commitment of 20 hours, with responsibilities evolving from data collection and management in the first two years to analysis and manuscript preparation in later years. The GRA will earn approximately $26,400 per year and receive tuition and fee coverage for up to 21 credits annually. Additional funding may be available if grant support continues. Applicants from all backgrounds and life experiences are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates are curious, motivated, and interested in tobacco/cannabis policy, public health, and behavioral research. Prior research experience and a publication record are advantageous but not required. The application deadline is February 1, 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For more details, review the full announcement and contact Dr. Jennifer Pearson at the University of Nevada Reno.