Head of Public Health
University of Basel
Switzerland

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international levels. 950 people from 95 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on infectious and non-communicable diseases, environment, society and health as well as health systems and interventions.

The Department of Epidemiology and Public Health (EPH) investigates distribution and causes of infections and non-communicable diseases. To understand and promote the well-being of people in different cultural and environmental contexts, EPH applies various methods ranging from anthropology and social science to biostatistics and mathematical modelling as well as observational cohorts with biobanks.

Swiss TPH harbors unique national and international research infrastructures (vector biology facilities, population surveillance and cohort infrastructures) as well as strong and partner networks relevant for the generation of new evidence and its application to impact.
The Unit Disease Modelling as part of the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health (EPH) closely collaborates with other units and departments at Swiss TPH. We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated individual with a strong research profile and a collaborative leadership style to join our team as the Head of Unit Disease Modelling 100%.

Your position

This is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing and advancing disease modelling research, ensuring its alignment with the EPH strategy, and fostering collaborations across various disciplines and sectors.

Your various responsibilities include:

• Lead and manage a team with diverse scientific and project management staff to ensure high-quality output and innovative approaches in disease modelling research
• Oversee the development and application of mathematical and statistical models to understand the dynamics of malaria and neglected tropical diseases and contribute to equivalent modelling to understand additional infectious and non-communicable diseases and their risk factors
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at national and international conferences
• Foster strong collaborations with internal teams and external academic institutions, as well as with governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations and international health organizations
• Secure funding through grants and partnerships to support the unit's research activities
• Serve as a subject matter expert, providing guidance and consultation to internal and external stakeholders and policymakers
• Contribute to teaching and training at undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate level

Your profile

You should have the following experience and skills:

• PhD or equivalent in Mathematics, Statistics, Epidemiology, or a related field with proficiency in relevant programming languages and software (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB)
• At least 5 years of experience in malaria and/or neglected tropical disease modelling with strong research background and focus on mathematical and computational modelling. This must include both methodological development and model application to questions of public health relevance.
• Proven track record of leading research teams, managing complex projects and showing strong collaborations across disciplines
• Solid track record of funding acquisition, including large competitive grants
• A publication record of high-quality and impactful publications
• Distinct teaching portfolio with experience in developing and teaching courses with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences as well as at least 5 years of supervision experience of PhD and MSc studen
• Experience in providing guidance on global policy, including WHO guidelines and policy briefs, and national policy on malaria and NTD control and elimination

We offer you

• Meaningful work in an internationally renowned institute where you will be part of an intrinsically motivated, multidisciplinary and multicultural organisation dedicated to creating a healthier world for all
• A challenging job in a collegial environment that will develop you both professionally and personally
• Attractive employment conditions with flexible work schedule and promotion of good work-life balance
• Interesting encounters with people from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries and level of hierarchies
• A state-of-the-art workplace in our new building with its own canteen on the dynamic BaseLink site in Allschwil

• Start Date: 1 January 2025 or upon agreement
• Duration: permanent contract
• Percentage: 100%
• Location: Allschwil
• Travel required: up to 40% of time
• Internal job title: Head of Unit

• CV
• Motivational letter including names and contact information (email or phone number) of 1 – 2 references
• Reference letters and diploma