To whom it may concern:
During my course work and professional engagement as a principal investigator, data analyst and
consultant in research projects at UAB I got experience in epidemiological study design (case control
trials, pre- and post-intervention, secondary data retrospective analysis) and methodological and
analytical procedures related to each type of design. I was trained to conduct the review of the literature
on the research topic and write the statement of the research problem. I also received training in collecting
quantitative (survey) and qualitative (interviews and focus groups) data, including identifying sampling
strategies, locating and designing data collection tools and protocols, and data organization and
management. Part of the training included reporting completed research via professional conference
presentations and peer-reviewed journal submissions.
With regard to quantitative data analysis I have experience in management and analysis of both
categorical (data measured on nominal and ordinal scales) and continuous (data measured on interval and
ratio scales) data. The size of the data files ranged from 134 to 480 subjects/scores. Depending on the
posted research questions/hypotheses I analyzed the data using descriptive statistics and inferential
analytical statistical methods using SPSS, JMP, Excel, and SAS. With regard to qualitative data I used
content analysis and typological analysis using NVivo software for qualitative data analysis. For each
project involving interview and focus group data I have conducted advanced level analysis using matrix
and modeling features in NVivo software. In addition, I applied mixed methods analysis, an integrated
quantitative and qualitative approach, when I merged quantitative and qualitative data sets and conducted
statistical analysis on a merged file. I also have a trained and professional experience in developing grant
applications for funded research including budget and budget justification.
Over two years I served as principle investigator on the research project “Reducing Colorectal Cancer
Risk in Polluted Areas in Ukraine” funded by the University of Alabama at Birmingham Sparkman Center
for Global Health. The purpose of this study was to identify knowledge about colorectal cancer (CRC)
risk factors and its preventive methods among the residents of Kiev area in Ukraine to further use this
information in developing educational intervention program aimed at reducing CRC incidences in highly
polluted urban areas. My responsibilities included implementing the grant project in an international
setting, development, implementation, and evaluation of a health education intervention program and
establishing the procedures for its monitoring after the grant completion (see a detailed list of related
responsibilities in CV).
During the last three years, I have been working at UAB as consultant and data analyst on several
research projects at the Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Surgical Transplant and
Divisions of Infectious Diseases and Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care. In all these projects
I have applied the research and data management skills explained above. In addition, often I had to
exercise quality control of data analysis by providing leadership to team researchers. I have collaborated
with the team members, participated in research meetings, and conducted numerous presentations to large
and small groups. Currently, I am taking classes in health informatics masters’ program at the UAB
Department of Health Services Administration.
My professional strengths include strive for new knowledge, dedication to work and the ability to focus
on the task. During my professional career I have developed the ability to work collaboratively and
congenially, a sense of responsibility, honesty, and a good work ethics. I believe that my training and
research experience have provided me with the skills needed to perform the specified job duties
successfully.
Sincerely,
Ivan I. Herbey