Research Fellow in Infectious Disease Modelling(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex is recruiting a Research Fellow in Infectious Disease Modelling to contribute to an innovative project focused on improving how we understand and quantify the spread of infectious diseases.

At the core of this role is the study of the effective reproduction number (R) and the factors that influence it. You will work closely with the Principal Investigator and a specialist software engineer to design new analytical approaches and develop open-source tools for use by researchers and public health professionals.

This is a highly interdisciplinary position, combining elements of epidemiology, statistical modelling, and scientific software development, with a strong emphasis on real-world impact.

What You Will Do

Design and run simulation studies to explore disease transmission dynamics
Analyse complex epidemiological datasets from real-world settings
Develop and refine statistical and computational methods
Contribute to the development of the Rtglm software package
Collaborate with academic, public health, and international partners
Engage with stakeholders, including non-specialist audiences
Support best practices in epidemic modelling and public health decision-making

About You

We are seeking a researcher who is both technically strong and motivated by real-world impact.

Essential criteria:

A PhD in a quantitative discipline (e.g. infectious disease modelling, statistics, mathematical epidemiology, data science, or related field)
Strong programming skills (e.g. R, Python, or similar)
Experience working with data analysis and modelling techniques
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams

Desirable qualities:

Experience in developing research software or open-source tools
Interest in public health applications and policy impact
Ability to communicate complex ideas to both specialist and non-specialist audiences

You will be curious, methodical, and committed to producing transparent and reproducible research.

Research Environment

The role sits within the School of Life Sciences, a vibrant and collaborative research environment at Sussex.

The School spans multiple disciplines, including:

Biochemistry and Biomedicine
Neuroscience
Ecology and Evolution
Chemistry

It also hosts major research centres and initiatives, delivering impactful research across health, sustainability, and biological sciences. The School has a strong track record of research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Why Join Sussex?

Work on research with direct implications for public health and epidemic preparedness
Be part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team
Contribute to the development of tools used globally
Access a supportive and inclusive academic environment

The campus is located near the South Downs, offering a balance of academic life and natural surroundings, with excellent transport links.

Eligibility & Visa Information

This role is eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship (subject to meeting criteria) and may require ATAS clearance depending on your circumstances.

For further guidance, please refer to the following official UK government resources:

• Skilled Worker visa
  Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
  Right to work checks
  UK visas and immigration overview
  Public health policy and guidance

All work associated with this role must be carried out within the UK.

Additional Information

For informal enquiries, please contact Pierre Nouvellet.

The University is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups in STEMM disciplines.