Research Fellow in Statistical Analysis and Modelling

The WorldPop program (www.worldpop.org), based at the University of Southampton, is seeking to recruit a Research Fellow to assist with modelling seasonal population changes in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). We require an enthusiastic and committed statistical analyst/modeller to work on estimating monthly changes in population density/mobility at multiple administrative unit levels. The work is foundational within a collaborative research project with Vodafone and Google. By incorporating spatio-temporal data in population estimates through dynamic modelling of population density/mobility, this project, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is expected to contribute and support the development of precision public health and other applications through constructing more accurate denominator data.

Models outputs, with associated uncertainty quantification, are expected to be constructed using GIS, RS, mobile phone, and Google Location History data. These data allow accurate geographical coding of the locations of social and environmental processes which vary over space and may have time dependency. Therefore, we require a statistical modeller/analyst with expertise in modelling processes over space and time.

The project work to be undertaken involves:

• Advancing spatial/temporal statistical models/approaches, including uncertainty quantification, for estimating variation in monthly population density/mobility in a number of LMICs using the data described above
• Potentially contributing to the design of sensitivity analyses for input data and the spatial and temporal scales at which model outputs are produced.
• Contributing to the preparation of project reports for the Gates Foundation, explaining the results of the project, presenting its outputs, and describing the methodology used to produce them.
• Leading and contributing to the preparation of scientific articles for publication in top-academic peer-reviewed journals.

You will have a PhD or equivalent professional qualifications in a statistical/ computational/quantitative discipline. Strong experience in spatio-temporal statistical analysis, geographic data, and computer programming would be essential.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the project lead at the University of Southampton, School of Geography and Environmental Science. The starting date is ASAP and is offered on a part-time, fixed term basis until 31 December 2021, with a strong likelihood of extension. The work pattern is flexible so can be discussed.

Informal enquiries may be made to Prof Andrew Tatem ( A.J.Tatem@soton.ac.uk ) or Dr Alessandro Sorichetta ( A.Sorichetta@soton.ac.uk )

The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need any assistance, please call Annabelle Trimm (HR Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 4043 or email recruitment@soton.ac.uk Please quote reference 1363821WR on all correspondence.

• Job Description and Person Specification

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated in the job advert.

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.