The Department of Mathematics at Toronto Metropolitan University invites applications from qualified candidates for a 2-year postdoctoral fellowship appointment in mathematical modelling of viral infection dynamics under the co-supervision of Prof. Kathleen Wilkie (TMU) and Prof. Morgan Craig (Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Computational Immunology, CHU Sainte-Justine Azrieli Research Centre and Université de Montréal). This position should start September 1, 2025 and will be located in Toronto.

A PhD in mathematics or a related field and evidence of excellence in research are required for the position.

The candidate will work with an interdisciplinary team of researchers to develop predictive, mechanistic mathematical and computational models of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. The models will be calibrated to and validated against experimental and clinical data to study the patterns of infection and reinfection between mothers and infants.

CMV infection can cause disease in multiple organ systems leading to hearing loss, neurological impairments, and other lifelong issues. It is more severe in immunocompromised patients, including infants and the elderly. CMV reinfections may occur between mothers and their infants partially due to the genetic diversity of the virus. This diversity fuels rapid evolution and the mutation of strains.

The successful candidate will develop mathematical and computational models to predict how infection outcomes are altered by immunological heterogeneity, including aging effects. Diversity in response dynamics will be explored through the use of virtual patients and virtual populations, and this will include scientific computing method development. Simulations of the data-calibrated models will improve understanding of the effects of viral evolution on infection establishment, reactivation, and reinfection in mothers and their infants.

The annual salary is $60,000 CAD plus benefits for one year with the possibility of renewal for a second year subject to performance. Candidates with teaching experience may apply to teach one course per year to supplement the salary.

The ideal candidate will have strong academic and publication records in systemic, mechanistic mathematical/computational modelling, a high degree of autonomy, and excellent communication skills. They will also work well with their peers and collaborators, be detail-oriented, and well-organized. The candidate will participate in lab activities, possibly help with the supervision of students and/or interns, and disseminate their work through journal articles and conferences.

Training: PhD in applied mathematics, computational biology, or a related discipline.

Specific expertise: Demonstrated mathematical modelling skills using data-driven quantitative analyses, differential equations, and/or quantitative systems pharmacology; programming skills; prior knowledge of immunology is an asset.

Please email Kathleen Wilkie (kpwilkie@torontomu.ca) to apply, or if you have any questions.

Applications should include:

-most recent transcripts,
-a curriculum vitae, and
-the names and contact of at least three references.
-a cover letter describing their interest in the position - To help assess potential timelines related to the appointment process, applicants are invited to indicate their current immigration status in Canada (e.g., citizen, permanent resident, work permit holder, foreign applicant) in their cover letter.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Review of applications will begin on June 30, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those offered an interview will be contacted.

Questions regarding the position can be directed to Kathleen Wilkie (kpwilkie@torontomu.ca).