PhD: 'Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Disease Vectors'

At RIVM, over 2400 colleagues collaborate daily to contribute to tomorrow's healthcare. The Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology Center, part of the domain of infectious diseases and vaccinology, aims to analyze and monitor the health of the Netherlands in the field of infectious diseases. In the Animal & Vector department (A&V), approximately 30 colleagues work on detecting and combating zoonoses (diseases of animals that are transmissible to humans). It's a self-directed, international, and professional team characterized by expertise and respect for each individual's input and personal values.

Purpose of the Position:

As a result of climate and environmental changes, the risks of diseases transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes are evolving. Due to the fluctuating populations of these vectors, their distribution and risks for humans are challenging to measure. We are seeking a PhD candidate/Researcher who, using the latest DNA techniques, can map the population dynamics and distribution of both ticks and mosquitoes. By combining this information with genetic data of pathogens like the Borrelia bacterium and the West Nile virus, our goal is to better understand the spread and public health risks. This enables us to predict the effects of climate change and adaptation on the occurrence of vector-borne diseases.

Roles and Responsibilities:

You will participate in a 4-year scientific PhD trajectory focusing on the prevalence of ticks, mosquitoes, and their pathogens in various European habitats. The project aims to contribute to the improvement of monitoring emerging vector-borne infections, such as Lyme disease and West Nile fever. Your tasks include collecting ticks and mosquitoes through fieldwork, obtaining information about their pathogens and genetics using the latest DNA techniques in the laboratory. You will conduct various population-genetic and bioinformatics analyses to make statements about the spread of vector-borne diseases. Presentation of findings at scientific meetings and in articles is part of the role. Collaborating closely with RIVM and Wageningen University (WUR), where the PhD position is located, is essential. Over time, you will independently initiate research and maintain contacts with (international) partners. You will undergo training at WUR to facilitate your Ph.D. completion. You will have the flexibility to determine your workplace, either at RIVM or WUR, with an estimated split of 50/50.

Who You Are:

You are an analytical professional with a passion for applied research, adept at analyzing data, processing information, and communicating effectively with fellow researchers. You are curious, results-oriented, and possess strong research skills. Your ambition is to conduct groundbreaking scientific research with societal relevance, translating the analyses into societal significance. Excellent written English skills are crucial as you will be writing for scientific publications, reports, and advice. You are comfortable working independently for extended periods while also enjoying collaboration with colleagues on an equal footing, ranging from those in the field capturing mosquitoes to lab personnel providing diverse contributions. Additionally:

• You hold a relevant master's degree in biology/bioinformatics or a comparable field.
• You have demonstrable experience in modern molecular analyses, preferably in genetics or bioinformatics, ideally combined with (medical) biological (field) research.
• You possess a solid understanding of statistics and (statistical) modeling.

Unique Aspects of the Job:

This position at RIVM offers the opportunity to engage in complex and innovative research with direct implications for future healthcare. Your work will contribute to a broad (inter)national network within One Health. Surrounded by colleagues with scientific expertise and experience, including (medical) biologists, entomologists, and veterinarians, you will be part of significant themes in the One Health field. The strong collaboration with WUR provides a robust scientific foundation for your research and Ph.D. trajectory.

• Salaris­omschrijving

  The salary corresponds to the OIO salary scale according to the working conditions.
  You will be employed on the basis of a 36-hour week. The appointment is temporary for the duration of 4 years. Your salary € 2.902,24 gross per month (based on 36 hours a week) in the first year, ascending to € 3.608,64 gross per month in the fourth year.

  In addition the RIVM has many attractive employee-conditions, such as personal development, study facilities, an individual employee conditions choice system (IKB) and a commuter’s allowance (based on public transport).

• Dienst­verband: Arbeidsovereenkomst voor bepaalde tijd
• Contract­duur: 48 months
• Minimaal aantal uren per week: 36
• Maximaal aantal uren per week: 36

In addition to the salary, you will receive an Individual Choice Budget (IKB). The IKB consists of money (16.37% of your gross annual salary) and time. With the IKB you make the choices that suit you and you can put together part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, you can choose to have part of your monthly income paid out whenever you wish. You can also convert this budget into leave and vice versa or spend it on tax-friendly goals. The Dutch government is strongly committed to personal growth and career development and offers numerous opportunities for this. The secondary employment conditions include various study facilities, company fitness, full reimbursement of your public transport travel expenses commuting and partially paid parental leave.