Research Assistant or Associate

About the role:

This post is funded by the Gates Foundation through the JUNO2 project (https://www.gbsgen.net), led by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, to investigate the global genomic epidemiology of Group B streptococcus (GBS). GBS is a leading cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis worldwide, significantly contributing to infant morbidity and mortality. However, substantial gaps in global surveillance of invasive infant GBS disease hinder accurate estimates of its true burden. This position will focus on quantitative modelling of the invasiveness of GBS serotypes and strains by integrating epidemiological and genomic data. This work will build on existing frameworks (e.g. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009389) to estimate the risk of invasive isolates emerging from carriage population and likely changes in the burden of disease across different countries associated with the upcoming introduction of vaccines against GBS. The project aims to generate critical insights into the role of GBS genetics in disease burden, ultimately informing vaccine implementation policies and contributing to the reduction of GBS-associated morbidity and mortality in neonates and infants worldwide.

What you would be doing:

The work will involve applying and developing mathematical models to large-scale bacterial genomic datasets and associated epidemiological data and applying these to inform disease burden estimates and forecast changes in disease incidence following vaccination. This will require using bioinformatic software, phylogenetics and models of disease transmission and pathogenesis.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking an individual with experience of quantitative analyses of large genomic and/or epidemiological datasets to undertake analyses with existing algorithms, and develop new code tailored to specific challenges. Applications are welcomed from individuals with experience of analysing complex genetic and/or epidemiological datasets and developing software or models for research purposes.

The successful applicant will be based within the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, a centre of excellence for mathematical modelling and pathogen epidemiology. They will work closely with project partners at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and EMBL-EBI, who are world leaders in the analysis of genomic data. Therefore, this position will offer extensive opportunities for building collaborations, learning new skills, and generating results to inform public health policy.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

This a fixed term for one year contract in the first instance with possibility of extension.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr Nicholas Croucher at n.croucher@imperial.ac.uk.                                                            

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.

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