PhD Studentship in Arbovirus Research: The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections invites applications for a PhD studentship focused on predicting and preparing for arbovirus introduction to the UK. This project aims to develop and evaluate vector control strategies, specifically utilizing the bacterium Wolbachia, to mitigate the risk posed by mosquito-borne diseases, specifically targeting Aedes albopictus.
Designation
PhD Studentship
Research Area
- Vector Biology
- Public Health
- Emerging Infections
- Zoonotic Infections
Location
Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
Eligibility/Qualification
- Academic:
- Applicants must hold at least a first-class or high upper second-class Honours degree, or a degree of comparable standard awarded from outside the UK.
- A Master’s degree (at merit or distinction) is welcomed but not a prerequisite.
- Residence:
- Candidates of all nationalities are eligible to apply.
- Encouragement for applications from nationals of Low-Middle-Income Countries.
Job Description
The successful candidate will research on:
- Understanding the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the UK.
- Developing mosquito lines to be used in control strategies against Ae. albopictus.
- Evaluating suppression capacity against various populations of Aedes albopictus.
- Integrating experimental data into models to inform UK government strategies for disease prevention.
This PhD project is aligned with the NIHR HPRU-EZI, which focuses on protecting public health from emerging infections. The candidate will also engage in patient and public involvement (PPI) initiatives.
How to Apply
Stage 1 Application Process:
- Submit your CV to iicon@lstmed.ac.uk.
- Complete the online application form: Application Form.
Requirements:
- Provide personal details, qualifications, and relevant research experience.
- Answer up to 7 questions (1250 characters each) regarding your background.
- Submit optional contextual information and diversity monitoring details.
Applications are only complete if both the CV and the application form are submitted.
Last Date for Apply
Deadline for Stage 1 Application: 17th July 2025, noon UK time.
Important Dates:
- Notification of Successful Candidates: 25th July 2025
- Interviews: Scheduled for 6th August 2025
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a leading research team dedicated to addressing public health challenges related to vector-borne diseases in the UK.
