PhD Student in infectious disease research [Luxembourg]

 

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To work on the “Microbiology forDevelopment” project in the Clinical and Applied Virology group (Dr JudithHübschen) within the Department of Infectionand Immunity, we are looking for a PhD candidate in infectious disease research:

29, rue Henri Koch, Esch-sur-Alzette L-4354, Luxembourg

21/08/2023 17:55:44

Background

Despite constant improvements in prevention and therapeutic interventions, infectious diseases, including vector-borne diseases, remain a serious public health issue in low- and middle-income countries. Climate change and globalization are providing new ecological niches to invasive tick and mosquito species and the pathogens they harbour. Although many vector-borne infections are endemic in Africa, there are noticeable gaps in disease surveillance and a thorough understanding of their epidemiology and burden is often lacking. A comprehensive One Health approach is therefore required to improve current knowledge as a basis for future prevention and mitigation efforts.

OBJECTIVES

We seek a highly motivated PhD candidate who will enjoy working in a multinational environment on projects related to vector-borne diseases in the framework of the “ Microbiology for Development” project. The candidate is expected to contribute to study implementation, result analysis and interpretation and to take part in training of staff from low- and middle-income countries (f.i. Burkina Faso). The presentation of results at national and international conferences and the writing of scientific manuscripts are also part of the assignments.

TRAINING AND RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT

The candidate will be integrated in the Clinical and Applied Virology Group within the Department of Infection and Immunity and will be supervised by Dr Judith Hübschen. The “ Microbiology for Development” project focuses on applied infectious disease research adapted to the local context and aims to provide scientific evidence for public and animal health decision makers. Capacity building and technology transfer to partners from low- and middle-income countries are integral components of this project.

KEY SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Master degree in Virology, Microbiology, Epidemiology, Medicine, Veterinary Science or related fields
• Background knowledge in vector-borne diseases based on previous trainings or assignments is mandatory, expertise in entomology is considered an asset
• Experience in standard laboratory methods (f.i. ELISA, PCR, sequencing, etc.), in the analysis of epidemiological data and in statistics is considered a plus
• Fluency in English is mandatory; knowledge of French is considered as a strong asset
• Keen interest in applied infectious disease and public health research
• Strong motivation for international travel to low- and middle-income countries
• Solid analysis and problem-solving capacities
• Determination to overcome hurdles and successfully conclude research studies (perseverance)
• Good organizational, time management, writing and presentation skills, rigour, autonomy, open to constructive criticism
• Sens of priority and ability to work with people with different background and culture.

The candidate will have the opportunity to work in an interactive and international scientific environment. Research staff is supported by easy access to scientific expertise, well-equipped facilities and and active seminar program. Various training opportunities including research, communication, project management and other skills are offered by LIH.

IN SHORT

• Contract type: 3-year fixed-term contract
  
• Work hours: Full-Time
  
• Location: Esch-sur-Alzette
  
• Start date: November 2023
  
• Ref: MC/PHDINF0823/JH/INF3

HOW TO APPLY

Applications including a cover letter and a curriculum vitae should be sent through our website Applications by email will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

GENDER EQUALITY

The LIH is an equal opportunities employer.
We are fully committed to removing any discriminatory barrier related to gender, and not only, in recruitment and career progression of our staff.

The LIH is attentive to gender representation among its leadership staff and aims to eliminate obstacles to the recruitment and promotion of female leaders and their career development.

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