PhD Student Data Science - Data Analysis (m/f/d)

The department EPID, led by Prof. Berit Lange, at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), is offering the position of a

Doctoral researcher (f/m/d) Modelling vector‑borne diseases in Germany

As a member of the Helmholtz Association, the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, based in Braunschweig, conducts top‑level research in the field of infectious diseases. Our scientists develop novel methods and strategies to fight infectious diseases faster and more effectively. Our common goal is to develop novel approaches for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Our research focuses on bacterial and viral pathogens, their interaction with the human immune system and new effective substances and vaccines.

Project description

The Department of Epidemiology consists of more than 40 employees ( Our research focuses on the fundamental relationships between the occurrence, spread and prevention of infectious diseases in the human population at national and international level. We are working on the area of immunology and infection as part of the NAKO health study ( The infrastructure of the department also includes the PhD Programme 'Epidemiology'.

VBD‑MODE is an interdisciplinary German consortium that advances modelling and forecasting of vector‑borne diseases to estimate current and future burden and strengthen preparedness. It integrates climate, environmental, land‑use and socio‑economic drivers to predict vector distribution, transmission potential and outbreak risk for pathogens such as West Nile fever, tick‑borne infections and Aedes‑borne diseases (e.g., dengue), using multi‑model ensembles and scenario‑based projections. The project combines process‑based eco‑epidemiological models with statistical/ML approaches and health‑economic modelling to assess the impact and cost‑effectiveness of interventions, including vaccination and surveillance strategies. In parallel, VBD‑MODE builds national capacity through standardized data integration, stakeholder exchange, training and open prediction challenges, translating modelling insights into actionable recommendations for Germany’s public health resilience.

Activities And Responsibilities

• Generation and running of dynamic models for vector‑borne diseases
• Data analysis of public health and cohort data with epidemiological methods
• Evidence synthesis to support model parameters
• Conduct and organization of epidemiological studies and sample collections
• Conduct and supervision of laboratory analyses, in particular immunological assays
• Data management and programming in R and Python
• Writing and contribution to original publications
• Coordinate contribution to modelling projects and platforms supporting reporting, communication and meeting organization
• Supporting teaching for medical and public health students
• Assistance with drafting project‑related grant applications
• Presenting the results at scientific conferences
• Assistance with project management and administration

Qualification profile

• University degree in mathematics, biostatistics or data sciences with experiences in dynamic modelling and additional degree in health‑related sciences e.g. epidemiology
• Alternatively: medical degree or health sciences degree with additional degree in data sciences, biostatistics and experiences in dynamic modelling
• Very good knowledge of statistics and R, Python or Stata
• Excellent data management and programming skills in R and/or Python
• Very good knowledge of English

Advantage

• Good knowledge of German
• Experience in dynamic modelling of infectious diseases
• Laboratory methods for serology/ELISA (experience gained during MSc or BSc studies desirable)
• Knowledge on/ experience in Machine learning approaches

Benefits

• Modern laboratories, incl. BSL3
• State‑of‑the‑art analytical instrumentation (spectral analyzer, sorting facility, single cell genomics pipelines)
• Ample biological profiling platforms (in vitro and in vivo)
• A lively scientific community and a corporate culture of appreciation & promotion of equal opportunities
• 30 days of vacation, (24.12. & 31.12. are considered as completely free days)
• An annual additional payment (Weihnachtsgeld) analogue to
• 20 TVöD
• Social security included
• DO IT- Promotionsinitiative
• Welcome Office
• Buddy System for new doctoral researchers
• Family Office, Child Holiday Care
• One of the strongest research region in Europe
• Central location within Germany, various metropolitan areas (i.e. Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Hannover) and recreational areas (i.e. Harz, Lüneburg Heath, North Sea) can be reached very quickly and easily by Train - it is also close to the airport Hannover.

People with severe disabilities and equivalent professional qualifications who are suitable for the position are given preference. In order to protect your rights, we ask you to provide us with a clearly recognizable reference to the existence of a degree of severe disability in your cover letter or resume.

The HZI is actively committed to equality, diversity and integration. For this reason, the HZI pursues the goal of professional equality between women and men. The position is suitable for part‑time work.