Principal Researcher, Value-Based Specialty Care

About the role

This senior research leadership role drives the design, execution, and evaluation of value-based specialty care and alternative payment model initiatives—primarily for CMS and CMMI. The Principal Researcher will report into AIR's Healthcare Innovations Team, which supports high-quality implementation and produces rigorous evidence on the effectiveness of new approaches to care and payment—translating findings into actionable insights for policymakers, payers, providers, and patients.

Responsibilities

• Leads project and task execution and business development, specifically for work conducted for CMS and the CMS Innovation Center (CMMI).

• Directs execution of large complex projects or portfolio of smaller projects; oversees the planning, design, and implementation of project procedures.

• Provides senior subject matter expertise related to specialty care, including quality measures, payment policies, and program and model design.

• Serves as industry expert for alternative payment models, value-based reimbursement, or Medicare payment policies, especially as they relate to specialty care.

• Effectively coaches and manages others to promote their development; sets developmental goals and measurements for staff.

• Fosters an environment that values a wide range of perspectives, experiences, backgrounds, and individual strengths.

Qualifications

• Education, Knowledge, and Experience: Ph.D. in Economics, Health Services Research, or a related field with a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience managing and conducting research or related work. Master’s degree and at least 11 years of relevant experience for a minimum of 5 years of experience leading large federal contracts. Direct experience on prior or current CMMI alternative payment model contracts. Proven track record of winning new business with CMS, AHRQ, or other HHS agencies. Extensive knowledge of Medicare payment policy, Medicare Advantage, and/or Medicaid.

• Skills: Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills at a senior level. Extensive success in writing, conceptualizing, analyzing, and consulting on large-scale federally funded projects. Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy when writing.