POSTDOCTORAL POSITION - MODELING MOSQUITO AND TICK-BORNE DISEASE SURVEILLANCE AND CONTROL

Columbia University, Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology (E3B)
International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), The Earth Institute
Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-borne diseases

A postdoctoral position is available in Maria Diuk-Wasser’s lab (https://ecoepidemiologylab.e3b.columbia.edu) in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology (E3B), Columbia University, in collaboration with the Columbia International Research Institute for Climate and Society (https://iri.columbia.edu/our-expertise/public-health) in Columbia’s Climate School. The applicant will join research projects newly funded by the Department of Defense, NSF and the CDC, and will become part of the Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-borne diseases, a collaborative network including faculty from Cornell, Columbia, Fordham and SUNY Universities, the NY State Department of Health and the Center for Vector Biology and Zoonotic Diseases in CT (http://www.neregionalvectorcenter.com).
The postdoctoral research scientist will harness an extensive network of existing and newly acquired surveillance and control datasets to develop predictive models for the presence and abundance of mosquito and tick vectors and their associated pathogens. Areas of emphasis include simulation modeling to identify optimal deployment of individual and integrated tick management approaches currently being investigated in the Center, modeling the population dynamics and spatial patterns of spread of mosquito and tick-borne pathogens and ensemble modeling of climate impacts on tick and mosquito-borne diseases. The modeling platforms developed will enhance surveillance and the institutional response capacity for real-time impact on vector-borne disease management. Additional opportunities exist for participation in a range of training and applied research activities related to the ecology, evolution and control of mosquito and tick vectors and vector-borne pathogens.

Qualifications
Applicants should have a PhD in ecology, epidemiology, applied mathematics, statistics, climate sciences or a related quantitative field. Background in mathematical modeling of infectious diseases, theoretical ecology, spatial and dynamic modeling, Bayesian inference or mathematical biology is highly desirable, in addition to having strong programming, statistical and quantitative skills. A track record of research excellence is essential, as are excellent written and oral communication skills.

Application Instructions
The position is available immediately for one year (with the possibility of renewal for a 2nd year contingent on availability of funding and satisfactory performance). The position will remain open until filled. Applicants should submit their CV, statement of research interests and the names of three references.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran