Informing transboundary disease spread with animal movement technology

Background to project

The single disease with the largest impact globally on agriculture is Foot and Mouth Disease. Not only does this disease prevent countries from breaking out of the poverty gap, but also new outbreaks can cause devastation to the agriculture industry and supporting functions, as has previously been seen in the UK during 2001. There is a clear gap in disease surveillance globally, allowing the disease to go unchecked in many countries, and presenting a real and constant threat to the UK. Animal monitoring technology is well-established for identification, reproduction, health and productivity. There is currently an unmet market opportunity to use this novel technology, particularly animal tracking and tracing technology to improve disease control.

Objectives

The successful applicant will collaborate with epidemiologists, vets, and industry professionals at MSD Animal Health to develop computational epidemiology-based tools. These tools will help to improve prediction of disease spread and the effect of interventions such as vaccination.

The Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Research Group is an established community of researchers based at Surrey, working across disciplines, and bringing together biologists, vets, mathematical modellers, engineers, and health economists, to address the challenges posed by NTDs. The University is also a member of London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research. MSD Animal Health is a leading company in both pharmaceuticals and technology for the health and welfare of animals. They work with governments and intergovernmental organisations, such as the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and World Health Organisation (WHO), to mitigate the impact and spread of transboundary animal diseases with economic and welfare importance. The company believes that this is necessary to improve human and animal health and welfare, to provide a sustainable food supply for the future, to protect customer in developed nations, and to build future markets in developing countries.

Academic Qualifications: 

You will need to hold a Bachelor’s degree (at least a 2:1) in any related disciple (e.g Biology, Epidemiology, Computational Science, Mathematical Modelling). 

Essential attributes:

• Good level of experience of mathematical modelling (R or similar).
• Fundamental knowledge of infectious disease transmission modelling. 
• Understanding of epidemiology.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills.
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills in a relevant project.
• Good time management.
• Willingness to work independently, and in a team with industry partners.

Desirable attributes:

• MSc (or near completion) in a relevant subject area. 
• Knowledge of stochastic models of infectious disease transmission.
• Knowledge of online tools and applications. 
• Knowledge of cost-effectiveness analysis. 

Open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees. See UKCISA for further information.

Neglected Tropical Diseases Research Group