Senior Research Scientist - Infectious Disease Modeling

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional growth opportunities

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist for a hybrid role focused on epidemic modeling and forecasting. You will develop, implement, and validate mathematical and computational models to predict disease spread, assess interventions, and inform policy in a global health context.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in a quantitative field with infectious disease focus, 5+ years of relevant research, and strong programming skills across R, Python, MATLAB, or C++.

Qualifications

• PhD in a quantitative field with infectious disease focus.
• Minimum 5 years of post-doctoral or research experience in infectious disease modeling.
• Proven ability to develop and apply mathematical models to infectious disease data.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement mathematical and computational models for infectious disease dynamics.
• Analyze epidemiological data to parameterize and validate models.
• Conduct scenario analyses to evaluate public health interventions.
• Generate forecasts and predictions of outbreaks and trends.
• Collaborate with epidemiologists, clinicians and public health officials to communicate findings.
• Publish research papers, grant proposals and technical reports.
• Present findings at conferences and to stakeholders.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to team capacity building.

Skills

R

Python

MATLAB

C++

Data visualization

Statistical analysis

Epidemiology modeling

Education

PhD in Epidemiology/ Biostatistics/ Applied Mathematics/ Computer Science (infectious diseases focus)

Tools

R

Python

MATLAB

C++

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent public health research organization dedicated to understanding and combating infectious diseases. We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist to contribute to our epidemic modeling and forecasting efforts. This hybrid role, based in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape, ZA**, allows for a flexible working arrangement, combining on-site collaboration with remote research. You will play a key role in developing, implementing, and validating mathematical and computational models to predict disease spread, assess intervention strategies, and inform public health policy. The ideal candidate possesses a strong quantitative background, expertise in mathematical epidemiology or computational biology, and a passion for public health. We are looking for an innovative and analytical individual who can translate complex data into clear, actionable insights. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to global health security and make a tangible impact on disease prevention and control.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, refine, and implement mathematical and computational models for infectious disease dynamics.
• Analyze epidemiological data from various sources to parameterize and validate models.
• Conduct scenario analyses to evaluate the potential impact of public health interventions (e.g., vaccination, social distancing).
• Generate forecasts and predictions of disease outbreaks and trends.
• Collaborate with epidemiologists, clinicians, and public health officials to interpret model outputs and communicate findings.
• Contribute to the writing of research papers, grant proposals, and technical reports.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in mathematical epidemiology, computational modeling, and infectious disease research.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and to relevant stakeholders.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to team capacity building.

Requirements

• PhD in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field with a focus on infectious diseases.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or relevant research experience in infectious disease modeling.
• Proven expertise in developing and applying mathematical models (e.g., compartmental models, agent-based models) to infectious disease data.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as R, Python, MATLAB, or C++.
• Experience with statistical analysis, data visualization, and handling large datasets.
• Solid understanding of infectious disease transmission mechanisms and public health principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex models and results to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid environment.
• Experience with high-performance computing environments is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement contributions, and generous paid time off.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility, allowing for a balance between remote work and on-site collaboration at our facilities in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape, ZA**.
• We are committed to professional growth, offering opportunities for training, conference attendance, and career advancement.
• Join a leading public health organization where your work directly contributes to improving global health outcomes and gain valuable experience in a critical scientific field.
• Make a difference in the fight against infectious diseases.