The SARS-CoV-2 airborne virus has highlighted that aerosol transition is poorly understood in our indoor environment. Indoor transmission of CoVID19 has lead to significant deaths, disability and pandemic disruption worldwide. Mechanistic models of airborne transmission are in their infancy yet are integral to understanding and mitigating indoor air threats. From the aerosol generation of infected individuals or media to airflows and environmental conditions which facilitate virus viability for long periods to ventilation and filtration. This inter-disciplinary project integrates viral animal models, behavioural and aerosol/environmental dynamic air flow / microphysical models to investigate airborne transmission within our built environments.

This project is part of the MRFF funded “Aerosol Infection Research: Better mOdels to Reduce iNdoor Exposure (AIRBORNE)” lead by Prof Kanta Subbarao of the Doherty Institute. The research team comprises mechanical and software engineers, aerosol scientists, virologists, respiratory, ICU and infectious disease clinicians.

As the value of safe indoor air is now greatly appreciated this new field of research is expected to grow. There are opportunities to work on complementary projects to suit the interests and skills of the appointee, and seeking of grant funding to develop related, independent research is encouraged.

The position will report to A/Prof Nic Geard and is based in the School of Computing and Information Systems and A/Prof Robyn Schofield in the School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. The University of Melbourne is home to a thriving infectious disease modelling research group, comprising members from computing, mathematics, population health, epidemiology, air quality and climate, and leads a national Centre of Research Excellence in public health-oriented infectious disease modelling.

Responsibilities include:

Independently plan and carry out research on the nominated research project and work towards completion of the aims of the project
Contribute to teaching, training, scientific mentoring and supervision of students;
Attend and contribute actively to research group meetings
Assist in the preparation and submission of competitive grant applications relating to the appointee’s research program

About You
You will have demonstrated experience in using initiative, working with minimal supervision and ability to prioritise tasks to achieve project objectives within timelines. You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including an ability to interact with internal and external collaborators and stakeholders from different disciplines and sectors in a courteous and effective manner.

You will also have:

PhD in Computer Science, Atmospheric Science, Microphysical Modelling or other discipline with a strong computational modelling focus
Demonstrated ability to design, implement and test complex computational simulation models using good software engineering practices
Enthusiasm for addressing research questions relevant to airborne transmission, human health and wellbeing.
A track record of quality research as evidenced by research publications in leading conferences and journals commensurate with opportunity