Research Fellow (post-doc) – Virus Ecology

The Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp is a leading independent academic centre for research and innovation, education, and clinical services in the fields of public health, global health, and tropical medicine.

Founded in 1906, ITM’s research today focuses on disease prevention, control and elimination, emerging infections and outbreaks, and sustainable and equitable health systems, with antimicrobial resistance integrated across all research themes.

The Unit of Virus Ecology has a particular interest in unravelling zoonotic viruses in their wildlife hosts, specifically mpox, Ebola, Hanta and Lassa virus.  We focus on three main areas: developing advanced diagnostic tools for detecting viruses in wildlife; using these tools to enhance field research design and outcomes; and applying our findings to develop control strategies from a One Health perspective. The Unit is running collaborative research and capacity building projects on wildlife viruses and on the evaluation of new diagnostic tests with partners in DR Congo, Guinea, South Africa and Tanzania.

The Unit is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with a PhD in disease ecology, epidemiology, or a related field. Applicants should have strong quantitative and biological skills and a deep understanding of disease dynamics.

Would you like to help make a difference within our team? Apply now for the position of Research Fellow (post-doc) – Virus Ecology.

Your responsibilities:

-          You will be responsible for supervising sample screening (PCR, serology) and statistical/mathematical modelling in the unit

-          You will be responsible for the project management and communication with the (African) project partners

-          You are expected to write/or help drafting research proposals

-          You will organize biological field work in remote regions of DRC and Guinea

-          You will write high-quality publications for scientific journals

-          You will present research results at different levels and for different audiences

-          You will contribute to the scientific discussion and help training and supervising Master and PhD students.

Your profile:

-          You hold a PhD in disease ecology, epidemiology or a related field

-          You have an interest in rodent, bat-borne diseases, immunology and statistical/mathematical modelling

-          Previous experience working in low- and middle-income countries is preferred.

-          You show a high level of enthusiasm and motivation, and you are scientifically curious

-          You have excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills in English (and preferably in French)

-          You have excellent organisational skills

-          You support the mission and values of the ITM.

The Institute of Tropical Medicine is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. Through your role, you will contribute to ITM’s socially relevant mission.

We highly value human dignity and diversity, academic creativity, and a critical mindset, with a strong focus on solidarity and collaboration. The wellbeing of our staff, students, patients, and clients is central to everything we do.

We offer:

-          A fulltime, open-ended contract as research fellow within the novel Unit of Virus Ecology. Starting date: as soon as possible.

-          The role is currently linked to a project for which funding is foreseen for an initial period of three years.

-          A collegial and supportive working environment with attention to work-life balance, individual growth, and professional development.

-          A culture of continuous feedback and open dialogue, with regular check-ins and coaching, as well as an annual appraisal cycle that supports development and salary progression.

-          A workplace in the heart of the vibrant city of Antwerp, easily accessible by public transport and bicycle.

-          Office hours from Monday to Friday, based on a 37,5-hour work week.

-          A salary based on your relevant professional experience. ITM applies Hay salary scales. This position is classified in Hay scale 16, with a minimum gross salary of 5014,85 euro.

-          Additional benefits include bicycle compensation, bicycle leasing and/or public transport subscription, meal vouchers, and a supplementary pension scheme.