Research Associate (Fixed - Term)

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Associate to join the Department of Mathematical Sciences, working alongside Dr Ruth Bowness. This position will suit those with a passion for Mathematical Biology, working on an interdisciplinary project using mathematical and computational methods to improve and personalise Tuberculosis (TB) treatment. 

We currently have two mathematical frameworks to model infectious diseases in the lung: a hybrid Individual-based Model (IBM) and a meta-population network model. 

You will combine these modelling frameworks and develop the new model to account for immunological dysfunctions typical in particular subgroups of TB patients. 

We will concentrate on TB/HIV and TB/diabetes, performing simulations of different treatment options (via integrated Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic models).

You should be able to demonstrate depth and breadth of specialist knowledge of computational modelling in interdisciplinary mathematical biology research. 

You will contribute to the deliverables of the research project and communicate results through peer-reviewed journal publications and via national/international conference presentations.

You will also be expected to take an active role in supporting PhD and undergraduate students within the team. 

You will work with a range of clinical, biological and mathematical collaborators on the project, and contribute to the overall success of the team.

This position is funded by the Medical Research Council and is fixed term for 3 years. 

You will join the interdisciplinary research team of Dr Ruth Bowness and contribute to the production of high-quality research papers, as well as assist with the dissemination of the research. 

You will be part of a thriving mathematical biology community within the Centre for Mathematical Biology at Bath and will receive excellent mentoring and support.

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.

About you

1. You will have a PhD and an undergraduate degree in applied mathematics, computer science or another cognate discipline with a substantial computational component. 
2. You should be able to demonstrate depth and breadth of specialist knowledge of computational modelling in interdisciplinary mathematical biology research.
3. You should have experience of working closely with colleagues across disciples.
4. You should have experience of designing and delivering on research projects, and the ambition to publish in high quality, peer-reviewed journals. 
5. You will show willing to participate in the development of grant proposals and presentations at conferences. 
6. You will also be expected to take an active role in supporting PhD and undergraduate research students within the team.
7. You should be proficient in computational modelling, ideally with experience of within-host modelling immunology and/or pharmacology. 
8. Knowledge of infectious diseases would be desirable.

Additional information

This position is fixed-term for three years, but part-time working can be accommodated with length of contract altered accordingly.

What we can offer you:

1. A very generous employer contributory pension scheme
2. Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
3. We are a family-friendly University and with an increasingly agile workforce, are open to flexible working arrangements
4. An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
5. A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities
6. A number of support options available for new and existing staff to help with the cost of some immigration expenses which you may be eligible for: Relocation allowance, Visa Reimbursement, Interest-Free Loan.

Salary: Starting from £37,999, rising to £45,163

Contract Type: Full Time, Fixed Term