The WorldPop programme (www.worldpop.org), based at the University of Southampton, is seeking to recruit a statistical modeller/analyst to assist with a project focusing on spatial and multi-level modelling of vaccination coverage in Nigeria and other low- and middle-income countries. We require an enthusiastic individual to undertake high-quality research culminating in the production of high-resolution maps of measles, yellow fever and meningitis vaccination coverage and identification of factors associated with coverage levels. The work will be undertaken as part of a new grant award from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and will involve partners from National Statistics Offices and Ministries of Health. The outcome of the proposed research will be central to guiding policies regarding vaccine delivery strategies in the study countries. As well as joining the vibrant and well-connected WorldPop team, you will have opportunities to lead high-impact publications.

The project work to be undertaken will include some or all of the following:

-Developing spatial statistical approaches, including uncertainty quantification, for the production of high resolution estimates of vaccination coverage using geolocated household survey data and geospatial covariates
-Developing multi-level modelling approaches to identifying factors associated with vaccination coverage
-Contributing to the design of sampling strategies for vaccination coverage surveys
-Responding to ad-hoc analysis and modelling requests from governments and agencies
-Contributing to the development and delivery of workshops aimed at training outside staff (i.e. at national statistics offices, international agencies) in the methods developed
You will have a PhD *or equivalent professional qualifications in a statistical/ computational/ quantitative discipline. Strong experience in spatial statistical analysis and computer programming would be essential. A willingness to travel overseas occasionally is also required.