Job Description
Role Overview
The Department of Mathematics at the University of Sussex is recruiting a Research Fellow in Mathematical Ecology and Epidemiological Modelling. This position sits within an international, interdisciplinary research programme focused on understanding how tick-borne diseases spread across changing environmental and urban landscapes.
You will contribute to a major UK–US collaborative project examining how ecological systems, human activity, and environmental change interact to shape disease risk. The work combines mathematical modelling, ecological theory, and real-world data analysis to better predict and manage public health risks.
This research is part of a larger funding initiative supported by:
(UK Research and Innovation funding framework)
(National Science Foundation collaboration)
Research Focus
You will work at the interface of mathematics, ecology, and epidemiology, developing advanced models to study:
- Tick population dynamics and host interactions
Spread of tick-borne pathogens across landscapes
Effects of urbanisation and environmental gradients
Human infection risk patterns
Intervention and disease management strategies
Your core responsibilities include:
- Building metapopulation and network-based mathematical models
Integrating ecological and epidemiological processes into computational frameworks
Analysing large spatial and temporal datasets from international collaborators
Identifying environmental and social drivers of disease emergence
Supporting evidence-based public health and environmental management strategies
Collaboration & Project Environment
This role is embedded in a four-year international research programme titled:
Eco-social dynamics of tick-borne pathogens along urbanisation gradients: establishment, spillover, and management
Key partners include:
- University of Sussex (UK)
University of Bath (UK)
Columbia University (USA)
NSF-funded US research teams
There is also potential progression to a second phase of the project based at the University of Bath.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a researcher with strong quantitative and computational expertise in applied mathematics and biological systems.
Essential requirements:
PhD (completed or near completion) in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, or related field
Strong background in:
- Mathematical biology
Epidemiological or ecological modelling
Dynamical systems or applied network theory
Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or R
Experience working with complex datasets
Desirable attributes:
- Interest in infectious disease ecology
Experience in interdisciplinary research collaboration
Ability to translate mathematical models into real-world applications
Strong communication skills for academic and non-academic audiences
Relevant research and data governance guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/data-protection-act-2018-overview
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england
Working Environment
You will join a research-intensive and collaborative academic environment within the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, which is known for:
- Strong international research reputation
Interdisciplinary scientific collaboration
Supportive and inclusive research culture
Active engagement with global research partners
The School is committed to creating an environment that supports innovation, open scientific inquiry, and real-world impact.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University actively promotes inclusivity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups in STEM disciplines.
Key UK equality frameworks:
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/equality-and-human-rights-commission
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/gender-pay-gap-reporting
Visa & Eligibility
This role is eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship (subject to UK immigration requirements and salary conditions). It may also be eligible under the Global Talent visa route depending on individual circumstances.
ATAS clearance may be required depending on nationality and research area.
Employment Requirement
All work must be conducted within the United Kingdom in accordance with UK employment and research regulations.