Doctoral researcher (f/m/d) Modelling vector-borne diseases in Germany
Job advertisement no. 654
The department EPID, led by Prof. Berit Lange, at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), isoffering the position of a
Doctoral researcher (f/m/d) Modelling vector-borne diseases in Germany
As a member of the Helmholtz Association, the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, based inBraunschweig, conducts top-level research in the field of infectious diseases. Our scientists develop novelmethods and strategies to fight infectious diseases faster and more effectively. Our common goal is to developnovel approaches for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Our research focuses onbacterial and viral pathogens, their interaction with the human immune system and new effective substancesand vaccines.
Project description:The Department of Epidemiology consists of more than 40 employees (www.helmholtz-hzi.de/epidemiologie).Our researchfocuses on the fundamental relationships between the occurrence, spread and prevention ofinfectious diseases in the humanpopulation at national and international level. We are working on the area ofimmunology and infection as part of the NAKOhealth study (www.nako.de). The infrastructure of thedepartment also includes the PhD Programme "Epidemiology".
VBD-MODE is an interdisciplinary German consortium that advances modelling and forecasting of vector-borne diseases toestimate current and future burden and strengthen preparedness. It integrates climate,environmental, land-use and socio-economic drivers to predict vector distribution, transmission potential andoutbreak risk for pathogens such as West Nile fever,tick-borne infections and Aedes-borne diseases (e.g.,dengue), using multi-model ensembles and scenario-based projections.The project combines process-basedeco-epidemiological models with statistical/ML approaches and health-economicmodelling to assess theimpact and cost-effectiveness of interventions, including vaccination and surveillance strategies. Inparallel,VBD-MODE builds national capacity through standardized data integration, stakeholder exchange, trainingand openprediction challenges, translating modelling insights into actionable recommendations for Germany’spublic health resilience.
Tasks include:
- Generation and running of dynamic models for vector-borne diseases
- Data analysis of public health and cohort data with epidemiological methods
- Evidence synthesis to support model parameters
- Conduct and organization of epidemiological studies and sample collections
- Conduct and supervision of laboratory analyses, in particular immunological assays
- Data management and programming in R and Python
- Writing and contribution to original publications
- Coordinate contribution to modelling projects and platforms supporting reporting, communication andmeeting organization
- Supporting teaching for medical and public health students
- Assistance with drafting project-related grant applications
- Presenting the results at scientific conferences
- Assistance with project management and administration
Qualifications:
- University degree in mathematics, biostatistics or data sciences with experiences in dynamic modellingand additional degree in health-related sciences e.g. epidemiology
- Alternatively: medical degree or health sciences degree with additional degree in data sciences,biostatistics and experiences in dynamic modelling
- Very good knowledge of statistics and R, Python or Stata
- Excellent data management and programming skills in R and/or Python
- Very good knowledge of English
Advantage:
- Good knowledge of German
- Experience in dynamic modelling of infectious diseases
- Laboratory methods for serology/ELISA (experience gained during MSc or BSc studies desirable)
- Knowledge on/ experience in Machine learning approaches
We offer:
- Modern laboratories, incl. BSL3
- State-of-the-art analytical instrumentation (spectral analyzer, sorting facility, single cell genomicspipelines)
- Ample biological profiling platforms (in vitro and in vivo)
- A lively scientific community and a corporate culture of appreciation & promotion of equal opportunities
- 30 days of vacation, (24.12. & 31.12. are considered as completely free days)
- An annual additional payment (Weihnachtsgeld) analogue to § 20 TVöD
- Social security included
- DO IT- Promotionsinitiative
- Welcome Office
- Buddy System for new doctoral researchers
- Family Office, Child Holiday Care
- One of the strongest research region in Europe
- Central location within Germany, various metropolitan areas (i.e. Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Hannover)and recreational areas (i.e. Harz, Lüneburg Heath, North Sea) can be reached very quickly and easily byTrain – it is also close to the airport Hannover.
People with severe disabilities and equivalent professional qualifications who are suitable for the position aregiven preference. In order to protect your rights, we ask you to provide us with a clearly recognizablereference to the existence of a degree of severe disability in your cover letter or resume.
The HZI is actively committed to equality, diversity and integration. For this reason, the HZI pursues the goal ofprofessional equality between women and men. The position is suitable for part-time work.
Starting date: As soon as possible. Initial contract for 3 years, subject to final approval andfunding release by the external funding provider.
Salary: alike E 13 TV EntGO Bund (65%)
Working time: 19,50 hours per week
Place of work: Braunschweig
Probation period: 6 months
Closing date: 21/04/2026
For further information please contact Dr. Vanessa Melhorn, phone +49 5316181-3120,email: vanessa.melhorn@helmholtz-hzi.de.
Please apply via our career portal.
Please include a cover letter, resume, (employment) references, certificates, and (if available) work samplesor reference projects with your application materials. Please refrain from sending a photo.
We look forward to receiving your application!