We are looking to recruit an experienced and dynamic individual to join the research group of Dr Martin Walker (https://www.rvc.ac.uk/about/our-people/martin-walker) and Professor Joanne Webster (http://www.rvc.ac.uk/about/our-people/joanne-webster and to be part of our FibroScHot (Impact of increased praziquantel frequency on childhood fibrosis in persistent schistosomiasis morbidity hotspots) project (http://www.fibroschot.eu).

You will play an important role in the FibroScHot trial taking place on the shores of Lake Albert in Uganda. You will will join an interdisciplinary team based at the Centre for Emerging, Endemic and Exotic Diseases (CEEED) at the Royal Veterinary College developing statistical and mathematical transmission models of schistosomiasis. You will parameterise models using data generated during the ongoing intervention trails which will be used to project forward the long-term effectiveness of controlling severe schistosomiasis morbidity by delivering praziquantel at different frequencies. The results will improve our understanding of the relationship between schistosome infection and severe disease and will contribute key evidence to drive changes in policy recommendations on controlling schistosomiasis morbidity in transmission hotspots. Your ultimate aim will be to contribute towards attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 3 “Ensure health lives and promote wellbeing for all at all ages” through control of severe schistosomiasis.

This position is suited to someone with either a biological or physical sciences undergraduate degree and a Phd/D.Phil. postgraduate degree in a suitable subject (e.g. epidemiology, mathematical modelling, statistics). We are looking for a candidate ideally with direct experience working on human disease, and in particular on neglected tropical diseases. Greatest preference will be given to those who have experience in transmission modelling of macroparasitic diseases and show a strong aptitude or potential to publish high impact research.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Dr Martin Walker, Senior Lecturer in Epidemiology, Deparment of Pathobiology and Populations Sciences (mwalker@rvc.ac.uk)