The Senior Scientist will develop and implement cutting-edge mathematical models to inform the development and use of novel vaccines against Transboundary and Emerging Viral Diseases (TED) of animals.
To model detection, transmission, risk assessment and impact of major livestock infectious diseases worldwide to guide rapid disease control responses.

Responsabilities:

• Independently develop mathematical models to inform risk assessment and the development and use of vaccines against transboundary and emerging viral diseases of livestock.
• Works in collaboration with epidemiologists and disease specialists, including external partners, developing new and innovative models to detect and evaluate the emergence and impact of TEDs.
• Identifies needs and plans activities/projects guiding rapid disease control responses in collaboration with the TED team, in particular the disease surveillance and tracking team members.

Requirements:

• PhD or equivalent research experience in mathematics, physics, ecology, epidemiology or related discipline with a minimum of 5 year-experience in research on modelling of infectious diseases.

• A thorough understanding of evaluating and deploying current tools and techniques used in emerging infectious disease modelling.

• An in-depth knowledge of research methods, procedures, and techniques applicable to model viral diseases in livestock.

• A strong background in infectious disease epidemiology or disease ecology and strong quantitative skills in biostatistics, epidemiology, and mathematical modelling with knowledge of animal health.

• Experience in the design and development of modelling approaches to enable decisions.

• Experience in different research methodologies such as dynamical systems modelling, stochastic processes, simulation, Bayesian statistics, spatial and network analysis, and/or machine learning.

• Proven track record in at least two of the following areas: real time surveillance and early warning systems, risk assessment, risk mapping and disease forecasting, disease transmission, spatial phylogenetics.

• Extensive experience in scientific computing and programming with software such as R and Python.

• Knowledge of virology or microbiology is desired.

• Strong Good planning, prioritization, trouble-shooting skills and ability to function in multi-disciplinary teams will be a significant advantage.

• Good English communication skills (written and oral) are essential. Knowledge of French would be an asset

• A proven track-record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at conferences.