Research Fellow in Infectious Disease Modelling (UK Sponsorship)

Uk
March 20, 2026

Job Description

About the Opportunity

Join the University of Sussex as a Research Fellow and play a key role in advancing how infectious diseases are understood and analysed.

This postdoctoral position sits within an exciting research project focused on improving how we measure and interpret disease transmission—particularly the factors influencing the effective reproduction number (R). You’ll collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator and a specialist software engineer to develop innovative statistical tools and open-source resources for real-world use.

Your work will bridge multiple disciplines, including:

  • Epidemiology
  • Statistical modelling
  • Scientific software development

 What You’ll Be Doing

In this role, you will take ownership of both research and technical development tasks, including:

  • Designing and running simulation studies to explore disease transmission dynamics
  • Analysing complex, real-world epidemiological datasets
  • Developing new statistical approaches to improve modelling accuracy
  • Contributing to the development of the Rtglm software package
  • Collaborating with partners across the UK and internationally
  • Engaging with public health stakeholders and wider communities

This role offers a strong balance between independent research and collaborative work, with clear opportunities to contribute to public health decision-making.

 About You

You’re a curious and driven researcher who enjoys solving real-world problems through data and modelling.

Essential:

PhD (or equivalent experience) in a quantitative field such as:

  • Infectious disease modelling
  • Statistics
  • Mathematical epidemiology
  • Data science
  • Strong programming and analytical skills
  • Ability to manage your own research while contributing to team efforts

You’ll stand out if you:

  • Have experience building or contributing to research software
  • Can clearly explain technical ideas to a wide audience
  • Enjoy working across disciplines and with diverse stakeholders
  • Value transparency, collaboration, and open science

 About the School of Life Sciences

The School brings together a wide range of expertise, from molecular biology to environmental science, with a shared goal of improving health and understanding complex systems.

Research is organised across departments such as:

  • Biochemistry & Biomedicine
  • Neuroscience
  • Ecology & Evolution
  • Chemistry

The School is known for its strong research output and collaborative culture, with a significant proportion of its work rated as world-leading.

 Why Join Sussex?

Working at Sussex means being part of a forward-thinking academic community:

  • Beautiful campus near the South Downs
  • Excellent transport links (Falmer station nearby)
  • Inclusive and supportive workplace culture
  • Opportunities to contribute to impactful, global research

 Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 15 April 2026
  • Interviews: 27–28 April 2026
  • Start Date: From 1 June 2026

 Visa & Eligibility Information

This role may qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship (subject to eligibility and salary level).

Useful official guidance:

 Note:

  • ATAS clearance may be required depending on your nationality and research area
  • Work must be carried out within the UK