PhD Student in Statistics and Modelling of Infectious Diseases Hasselt University in Belgium

Hasselt University invites applications for a PhD student position in statistics and modelling of infectious diseases. The successful candidate will join the Center for Statistics within the Data Science Institute, a vibrant research environment with over 150 researchers dedicated to data-driven innovation. The research project focuses on statistical epidemiology, specifically modelling the transmission dynamics and risk assessment of mosquito-borne arboviruses with potential to invade the EU. This interdisciplinary project combines biostatistics, infectious disease modelling, and geospatial analysis, and is conducted in collaboration with the Artificial Intelligence Lab at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) as part of a joint PhD programme.

As a PhD student, you will conduct scientific research, write and publish articles, participate in national and international conferences, and develop a professional network. You will also contribute to teaching assignments within the Department of Mathematics–Statistics and participate in the Doctoral School of Sciences & Technology. The Data Science Institute at Hasselt University is committed to addressing fundamental and applied challenges in data science, offering extensive national and international contacts and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

The position offers a PhD scholarship for 2 years, with the possibility of extension for another 2 years following a positive interim evaluation. The start date is scheduled for September 1, 2026. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in (Bio-)Statistics or Data Science (or equivalent), demonstrate a strong interest in statistical and mathematical modelling of infectious diseases, and have experience with scientific programming (R, Python). Excellent academic results, multidisciplinary teamwork, clear reporting, proactive and accurate work, and strong communication skills in English are required. Experience with the research topic is considered an advantage.

The selection process includes a preselection based on the application file and an interview. For more information about the Data Science Institute, visit https://www.uhasselt.be/dsi. To apply, submit your application via the Hasselt University vacancies portal. For further details, see the job vacancy link or contact [email protected].