How to Apply
For consideration of this position, applicants must submit the following materials as one document: 1) cover letter describing their interest in working in computational approaches to understanding the transmission of influenza, and 2) a current CV.
Job Summary
The Department of Epidemiology is seeking a postdoctoral research fellow with a record of accomplishment in infectious disease transmission (mathematical/mechanistic) modeling research to contribute to studies seeking to examine demographic, behavioral, and environmental factors that facilitate or prevent influenza transmission in households, using combined data from multiple prospective household cohort studies.
Primary responsibilities include the design and conduct of household simulation models to analyze longitudinal cohorts, as well as the preparation of scientific manuscripts as lead and co-author. There may be opportunities available for collaboration on a range of funded studies in the area of infectious disease dynamics, as well as for participation in the preparation and submission of extramural research grants.
This position, funded by a National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Disease grant, will be under the supervision of Dr. Andrew Brouwer, a computational epidemiologist whose research leverages mathematical and statistical modeling for inference in epidemiology, and Dr. Joseph Eisenberg, an infectious disease epidemiologist and transmission modeler with global and domestic research and an interest in environmental determinants of transmission. The University of Michigan has a vibrant and dynamic intellectual community for infectious disease research, including the Michigan Center for Respiratory Virus Research and Response, the Michigan Center for Infectious Disease Threats, the Michigan Integrated Public Health Center of Outbreak Analytics and Modeling, among others.
Responsibilities*
- Data management: Manages the organization, documentation, merging, cleaning, and storage of complex population datasets. Creates final analytic datasets.
- Data analysis and modeling: Designs and executes complex data analyses and simulation models. Independently interprets results, including creation of data tables, visualizations, and reports for presentation.
- Manuscript preparation: Conceptualizes and contributes to the writing of scientific manuscripts as lead author and co-author.
- Collaboration and mentorship: Provide collaborator feedback and supplementary mentorship to master's- and PhD-level students engaged in related research projects.
- Grant preparation: Assists in acquiring extramural research funding, including the technical portions of grant proposals.
Required Qualifications*
- Doctorate in epidemiology or other public health science. Applicants with PhD in computational or quantitative fields (statistics, applied mathematics, etc.) are encouraged to apply if they meet the other criteria. Applicants must have a conferred doctorate degree prior to the start of the fellowship.
- A record of accomplishment in infectious disease modeling research, as evidenced by publications, presentations, and training.
- Prior training or research in simulation modeling, parameter estimation, and uncertainty quantification.
- Proficiency in programming in R (preferred) or Python. Excellent skills in data management and analysis, data visualization, and scientific communication.
Desired Qualifications*
The following qualifications are not required or expected but should be highlighted in the application materials if present.
- Prior experience in household transmission models.
- Prior experience with models of influenza or other respiratory viruses.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
This position allows for a hybrid work schedule. The selected candidate will be expected to work on-site 2 days per week.
Additional Information
This is a term-limited position for one-year from the start of the appointment, with possibility of extension contingent upon funding and performance.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic staff member with a commitment to contributing to a welcoming environment for all members of our community.
Anticipated start date: Between November 1, 2026 and January 1, 2027.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.