Research Fellow, Mathematical and Physical Sciences

**Work type**:Fixed Term
- Take a leadership role in the development of a multi-strain _Streptococcus pyogenes_ computational transmission model
- Full Time/2 Year Fixed Term Research Only Appointment, Remuneration at Academic Level B
- This role is based at La Trobe University’s Bundoora Campus

**About the position**:
The Research Fellow, funded through a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Synergy Grant, STARFISH, will take a leadership role in the development of a multi-strain _Streptococcus pyogenes_ computational transmission model, calibration of the model to data and integration of the model into a novel framework for identifying optimal study designs. At La Trobe, The Research Fellow will be a member of the Infectious Disease Modelling Group in the Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences (School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences), reporting to Dr Rebecca Chisholm. They will work closely with other project investigators based at La Trobe (A/Prof Joel Miller and A/Prof Hien Nguyen), The University of Melbourne, The Kids Institute, and associated research higher degree student(s). The appointee will have completed a PhD in applied mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline. Ideally, they will have prior knowledge of infectious disease modelling, Bayesian inference methods and optimisation methods. They will have a developing research profile, with a demonstrated ability to publish scientific findings in the peer-reviewed literature.

Under the guidance and support of the grant investigators, the appointee will:
**Some of your duties will include**:

- Engage and build relationships with communities to ensure that all research results are communicated and adopted by communities and/or government.
- Lead development, simulation and analysis of the multi-strain model
- Lead calibration of the model to epidemiologic data from remote Australian First Nation communities
- Develop a model-based optimal design framework to address study design questions for planned future studies of _S. pyogenes_ transmission and control
- Follow best practice for coding conventions and code documentation
- Engage with A Two-Way Learning Panel throughout the project to enable Indigenous capacity-building, ensure cultural sensitivity, and to maximise the relevance and uptake of project findings.

**Skills and Experience**:

- Completion of a PhD or equivalent qualifications or research experience.
- A record of publications, conference papers and/or reports, or professional or technical contributions which provide evidence of strong research potential.
- Sound analytical skills with an ability to communicate complex information clearly both orally and in writing.
- Experience in at least one of the following topics: mathematical biology, mathematical modelling, agent-based modelling, Bayesian inference, optimisation
- Demonstrated ability to use modelling and statistical computing programs and languages such as Python and R

Please refer to the Position Descriptions for other duties, skills and experience required for this position.

**_ Welcome to Bundoora campus - Please click on the video link below: _**

**Benefits**:

- 17% employer contributed superannuation
- On site child care facilities
- Flexible work arrangements
- Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses

**How to apply**
Closing date: By 11:55pm, Sunday 29th June, 2025
- Cover letter;
- An up-to-date resume; and
- A separate document addressing the Key Selection Criteria which is located in the position description

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**Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants**

**_ Why La Trobe: _**
- _Develop your career at an innovative, global university where you’ll collaborate with community and industry to create impact. _
- _Enjoy working on our inspiring and stunning campuses - the perfect hub for industry, students and academics _
- _Help transform the lives of students, partners and communities now and in future_

**_All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005. If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement_**.