PhD Studentship in Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases

The Mathematical Science Research Centre, School of Mathematics & Physics at Queen’s University Belfast, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our team for a project focused on the mathematical modelling of infectious diseases. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of mathematics, epidemiology, and public health, contributing to our understanding and management of infectious disease spread.

The candidate will support the ongoing collaboration between the supervisors (Dr. Gabor Kiss and Dr. Salissou Moutari) and the Centre for Public Health (QUB), the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland, the Department of Mathematics at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand, the Department of Disease Control under the Ministry of Public Health in Thailand, and the Laboratory Center at Hanoi University of Public Health, Vietnam.

Key Responsibilities:

• Using statistical methods, prepare and analyse laboratory and patient data for modelling.
• Develop and enhance mathematical models of infectious diseases.
• Write and optimise code for simulations and data analysis.
• Analyse and interpret dynamical systems related to disease spread.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers.
• Communicate research findings through publications and presentations.

Candidate Requirements:

• A strong background in mathematics (knowledge in dynamical systems would be advantageous) or computer science.
• Proficiency in programming and code development (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrated interest in infectious disease epidemiology.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Entry Requirement: The required academic qualification is a first or upper second-class honours degree from a university in the United Kingdom or Ireland, or qualifications and experience considered by the University as equivalent to this standard.

Funding: Department for the Economy (DfE). Candidates must be ordinarily resident in the UK for a 3-year period before the first day of the start of the course. For eligibility information please click here.

Funding Amount: £18,622 annual stipend (tax-free) + full coverage of tuition fees + support grant for travel and attending conferences for 3 years.

Application Process: Applications should be submitted via the Postgraduate Applications Portal.

Start Date: The starting date for the position is 1 December 2024 or as soon as possible.

Closing Date: The closing date for applications is 15 November 2024, 17:00.

For informal enquiries, please feel free to contact Dr. Gabor Kiss (g.kiss@qub.ac.uk) or Dr. Salissou Moutari (s.moutari@qub.ac.uk) at the Mathematical Science Research Centre, School of Mathematics & Physics, Queen’s University Belfast.

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