PhD in Zoonotic Transmission Dynamics of Influenza A Viruses (Mathematical Modelling, Epidemiology) at University of Leeds University of Liverpool in United Kingdom

The University of Leeds, in partnership with the MRC DiMeN Doctoral Training Partnership, is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity focused on the zoonotic transmission dynamics of Influenza A viruses at the swine-human interface. This interdisciplinary project will employ mathematical modelling, including agent-based simulation, to study infectious disease dynamics and assess intervention strategies such as vaccination and biosecurity. Key research components include the use of Bayesian inference and MCMC techniques for model fitting, as well as the analysis and integration of real-world datasets. These datasets stem from recent surveillance projects in Cambodia, involving animal movement networks and cohort studies among households with varying levels of exposure to live pigs.

The project aims to provide quantitative risk assessments and simulate the impact of different intervention strategies to inform public health and veterinary policy. Supervision will be provided by Dr James Rudge (University of Leeds), an Associate Professor in One Health and Epidemiology with extensive experience in infectious disease modelling and zoonoses, and Professor Andy Fenton (University of Liverpool), an expert in disease ecology. The project is ideal for candidates interested in One Health, epidemiology, mathematical modelling, and the application of quantitative methods to real-world health challenges. The studentship is part of the MRC DiMeN DTP, which brings together five leading UK universities.

The programme offers comprehensive training, networking, and support, and covers full tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI standard rate for four years. Applicants should have a strong academic background in a relevant field such as biology, mathematics, epidemiology, or public health, and demonstrate motivation for interdisciplinary research at the human-animal-environment interface.

Experience with computational or statistical methods is highly desirable. International applicants are welcome, but must meet the University of Leeds English language requirements. To apply, candidates must use the University of Sheffield application portal, selecting this project as one of their two choices. It is strongly recommended to contact the supervisors before applying.

The application deadline is 4 December 2025 at 13:00 UK time. For further details, visit the DiMeN DTP website or contact Dr James Rudge directly.