At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct ethnographic fieldwork on Rift Valley Fever in Kenya and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
- Company: Durham University, a leading institution in social sciences research.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for professional development and international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health by understanding disease transmission in diverse communities.
- Qualifications: PhD in Anthropology or related field, strong research skills, and a passion for social science.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and contribute to innovative research with global significance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Anthropology to work with Prof Hannah Brown on a project funded by the Wellcome Trust entitled 'Understanding endemic Rift Valley Fever (RVF) transmission in distinct African regions'. This large, multi-disciplinary project brings together a team of researchers seeking to challenge the current view of RVFV as an epidemic disease. We propose that RVF exists along a spectrum from epidemic to endemic transmission, influenced by landscape ecology, climate, and socioeconomic factors.
The successful applicant will work closely with Prof Brown and support her leadership of the social science component of this project by undertaking a new piece of extended ethnographic fieldwork that will interrogate how social understanding and responses to RVF interface with an epidemiological transition of RVF from a disease of concern only during epidemics to one experienced as an endemic disease.
The primary sites of ethnographic fieldwork will be in Kenya, in Isiolo (epidemic RVF) and Kajiado (endemic RVF) counties, with the possibility of shorter visits to project sites in South Africa and Senegal where other strands of the project are active.
The aim of the social science work package is to generate a multidimensional understanding of multispecies relations, environments, livelihoods, politics, and public health priorities for RVF as interconnected elements of a biosocial nexus, and to work closely and collaboratively with other project members to ensure that these insights are fully integrated into the overall project and can be used to develop evidence-based strategies for sustainable RVFV control.
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Anthropology in North East employer: EURAXESS Ireland
Contact Detail:
EURAXESS Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Anthropology in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your academic contacts and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend conferences or seminars related to anthropology and make connections with fellow researchers. You never know who might have a lead on a postdoc position!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your research pitch ready! When you land that interview, be prepared to discuss your previous work and how it aligns with the project at Durham University. Show them how your skills can contribute to understanding RVF transmission in those unique African regions.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow Durham University and Prof Hannah Brown on platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Engage with their posts and share relevant content to get noticed. It’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for the project and the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on the Durham University site. This ensures your application gets the attention it deserves and shows your commitment to the role. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your application status!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Anthropology in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the project’s focus on endemic Rift Valley Fever. We want to see how you can contribute to the social science component, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Research Experience: Since this is a postdoctoral position, it’s crucial to showcase your previous research work. We’re looking for evidence of your ability to conduct ethnographic fieldwork and engage with complex social issues, so share relevant examples that demonstrate your expertise.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the point. Avoid jargon unless necessary, and make sure your passion for anthropology shines through in your writing.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised and efficient.
How to prepare for a job interview at EURAXESS Ireland
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the project details, especially the aspects related to endemic and epidemic RVF. Familiarise yourself with Prof Brown's previous work and how your research interests align with the project goals.
✨Prepare for Ethnographic Questions
Since the role involves extended ethnographic fieldwork, be ready to discuss your previous experiences in similar settings. Think about how you would approach the fieldwork in Kenya and what methodologies you would employ to gather meaningful data.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This project is multi-disciplinary, so highlight your ability to work with diverse teams. Prepare examples of past collaborations and how you’ve integrated different perspectives into your research.
✨Understand the Socioeconomic Context
Brush up on the socioeconomic factors influencing RVF transmission in the regions mentioned. Being able to discuss these elements will show your depth of understanding and commitment to the project's objectives.