PhD in Geospatial Modelling of Antimicrobial Resistance in Animals at University of Zurich

The University of Zurich's One Health Institute is offering a PhD position in Geospatial Modelling of Antimicrobial Resistance in Animals. This opportunity is based in the Epidemiology and Geography group, which specializes in assembling large spatial datasets and developing methods to map infectious diseases in animals and humans. The primary research focus is on mapping antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals raised for food, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, with the goal of informing policy and reducing the global burden of AMR. The PhD project will involve ensemble forecasting from multiple geospatial models, expanding models in space-time dimensions, and propagating uncertainty, including positional uncertainty of surveys. The project leverages global datasets such as resistancebank.org and encourages the student to develop original research questions in spatial epidemiology. The group values diversity and seeks candidates from varied educational and cultural backgrounds. Applicants should have a Master's degree in machine learning, microbiology, epidemiology, or a related field, with strong communication skills in English. Experience with ensemble forecasting, statistics, and programming in R or Python (including spatial analysis and species distribution models) is highly desirable. Additional skills such as high-performance computing, systematic literature reviews, and proficiency in languages like Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, or Arabic are considered assets. The position offers a competitive international salary, with an initial one-year contract renewable up to four years. The University of Zurich provides excellent career development support, flexible working models, childcare, subsidized food, healthcare benefits, and various discounts. Admission to the PhD position is contingent upon acceptance into a doctoral program at the University of Zurich. To apply, candidates should submit a single PDF containing their CV and a one-page cover letter via the University of Zurich job portal. The cover letter should detail previous research experience, aspirations, and motivation for pursuing a PhD. Applications will be reviewed starting January 5th, 2026. For more information about the position and working at UZH, visit the provided links. The supervisor for this position is Associate Professor Thomas Van Boeckel, a founding professor of the One Health Institute at the University of Zurich.