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  PhD Studentship: Elucidating the impact of climate on the seasonal dynamics of respiratory viruses


   IMPRS for Infectious Diseases and Immunology (IMPRS-IDI)

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  Dr Matthieu Domenech de Cellès  No more applications being accepted  Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

About the Project

The research group of Matthieu Domenech de Cellès at the Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology in Berlin is looking to recruit an outstanding student for a project starting in 2023. 

Project Description:

Seasonality is an intriguing aspect of many infectious diseases. These include infections caused by respiratory viruses like influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, and rhinoviruses, which collectively cause large morbidity worldwide. The incidence of these viruses is markedly seasonal in climatically diverse locations, but the mechanisms underlying these seasonal patterns remain poorly understood. Elucidating those mechanisms is essential to better understand the epidemiology of these viruses, to prepare for epidemics, and to design control strategies.

The PhD project will aim to elucidate the seasonality of respiratory viruses, in particular the impact of climatic variables—like temperature and humidity—on their transmission dynamics. The successful applicant will develop mathematical models of transmission, confronted with detailed epidemiological data using modern statistical inference techniques, to systematically assess the likelihood of different seasonal mechanisms.

We offer:

  • outstanding research and training opportunities with access to state-of-the-art facilities
  • an excellent scientific network
  • a structured graduate school program – students will be registered with the prestigious International Max Planck Research School for Infectious Diseases and Immunology (IMPRS-IDI) with a curriculum adapted to the projects and a strong PhD student community
  • a stimulating international and multi-disciplinary research environment on a thriving campus in the heart of Berlin

We are looking for:

  • creative and highly motivated Ph.D. students of all nationalities who are strongly committed to research
  • applicants must have an excellent M.Sc. or equivalent degree with a background in a quantitative discipline (e.g. mathematics, statistics, physics) and a keen interest in biology, epidemiology, and public health
  • candidates with experience in programming (in particular R) and with mathematic and statistical modeling will be strongly considered
  • applicants with a background in biology or medicine may also apply if they can demonstrate significant experience with quantitative approaches

Interested in joining us?

To apply, please submit your application via our online application platform until October 31st 2022.

For more information on the projects and application process, please check the IMPRS-IDI website.

Contact: IMPRS-IDI Coordination Office ([Email Address Removed])

Biological Sciences (4) Mathematics (25) Medicine (26) Physics (29)

 About the Project