Research Fellow in Mathematics

Contract Type: 24 months fixed term

Expected Interview date: TBC

Expected start date: June 2026 

About the role

The Department of Mathematics at the University of Sussex is inviting applications for a fixed-term research position on ecological modelling of tick-borne pathogens to better understand their distribution and prevalence along urbanisation and environmental gradients.

In this role, you will develop mathematical models to evaluate the roles of multiple mechanisms in structuring ecological metacommunities composed of ticks, their hosts and associated pathogens. Working closely with project partners, you will integrate process-based metapopulation models into network models to identify key environmental and social determinants of the risk of human infection, and suggest critical points for management actions.

The role includes research collaboration with the University of Bath (UK) and a US team coordinated by researchers at Columbia University. While this post has the fixed duration of 24 months, there will be an opportunity to apply for a continuation of this position to be based at the University of Bath (UK) for an additional 24 months of the project.

About you

We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in mathematical biology, ecological and/or epidemiological modelling, or applied dynamical systems.

Prospective candidates should hold a PhD in Mathematics or be in the final stages of writing up their PhD thesis and have submitted by the start date of the position. Equivalent research experience will also be considered.  You should have familiarity with handling large and complex datasets, and be skilled in programming languages such as Python, Matlab or R.

The ideal candidate will be capable of independent research as well as effective teamwork, with excellent communication skills for interdisciplinary engagement with colleagues and external collaborators. A strong interest in interdisciplinary research and applying mathematical techniques to ecological data and environmental challenges is highly desirable.

About our School

Please find further information regarding the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is proud to hold a Bronze Athena Swan Award.

Why work here

Find out more about our reward and benefits package.

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion.

Further Key Information

Please contact Prof Konstantin Blyuss (k.blyuss@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.

Candidates should include in their application the following:

• Academic CV
• A personal statement (500 words maximum) outlining their research interests and their research experience to date
• Official academic transcripts
• Contact details for two suitable referees
• Application form

For full details and how to apply see our vacancies page.

Eligibility

This role has been assigned an eligible SOC code and meets the salary requirements for Skilled Worker Sponsorship if full time and appointed at Grade 7.4. 

Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page for further information about Visa Sponsorship.  

This role may also be eligible for the Global Talent visa route, depending on the individual circumstances of the successful candidate.

Please note that this position may be subject to ATAS clearance if you require visa sponsorship.

The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK.

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