PhD in Host/Parasite Dynamics and Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Institute of Zoology, ZSL and the University of Edinburgh
An exciting opportunity investigating the host/parasite dynamics and spatial ecology of infectious disease is available through a NERC CASE studentship awarded to the Institute of Zoology (IoZ).The study system is based on the Isle of Rum, the jewel of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. The system itself involves an amphibian host (the palmate newt, Lissotriton helveticus) and a mesomycetozoan parasite that is causing mortality of newts on the island. The candidate will be expected to utilize and expand on existing data regarding the spatial distribution and prevalence of disease, but we seek a candidate who will develop her or his novel, independent ideas and specific research topics. The potential scope of the project is broad: while it will certainly involve substantial fieldwork on Rum, the capacity exists to support experimental, molecular, pathological and theoretical investigations.
We seek a highly motivated candidate with exceptional qualifications, preferably with some experience in research. Evidence of skills relevant to the project, including experience with spatial epidemiology, experiments examining host/parasite interactions and modelling infectious disease dynamics, will have bearing on the selection process. Our primary goal is to find a candidate with a desire to perform academic research to the highest standards and strong evidence of commitment to this. The degree awarding institution will be the University of Edinburgh. The candidate will have the ability to be based at the Zoological Society of London’s IoZ or The University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies (R(D)SVS), but would be expected to spend time at both institutions. The IoZ is internationally recognized for conservation science with a strong commitment to wildlife disease research. Basic research on the infectious diseases of amphibians at the IoZ influences conservation policy at the national and international level. R(D)SVS is the UK’s top ranked UK-based Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons-accredited veterinary school with proven excellence in research on infectious diseases. The CASE partner for the project is Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, the UK’s leading amphibian and reptile conservation organisation.
Candidates must submit a cover letter of research interests, curriculum vitae and contact details of 2 referees by email to Dr. Trent Garner ( trent.garner@ioz.ac.uk ). We expect to interview for the position on or near March 7th. According to NERC guidelines applicants must be either UK or from elsewhere in the EU citizens. EU applicants who have not spent the previous 3 years resident in the UK are eligible for a fees-only award and must cover their own living expenses.
Closing date for applications: 24th February 2013
