Medical Entomologist

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is currently seeking a skilled Medical Entomologist to join their team during the summer months. The role involves supporting and delivering a variety of field-based research projects.

The Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology (MEZE) group plays a crucial role in assessing, preparing for, and responding to current and emerging vector-borne disease threats within the UK. Their expertise focuses on vector-related issues, particularly ticks and mosquitoes, through research and surveillance activities. Additionally, the team collaborates internationally on vector-borne diseases, participating in European funded projects and aiding the development of surveillance systems in the UK Overseas Territories. Their work translates into expert advice for UKHSA, the Department of Health, and related agencies, contributing to policy development, contingency planning, and public health preparedness.

The successful candidate will actively contribute to a diverse range of projects, including literature reviews, ecological field and laboratory-based research, and surveillance activities. These efforts support both UKHSA initiatives and externally funded projects. Key responsibilities include vector surveillance and research activities within the UK, involving data collection, analysis, interpretation, and the preparation of scientific reports and publications.

This role will support the Culex species distribution modelling project alongside partners from University of Liverpool, University of Lancaster and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. You will support the collection of geographic location and larval habitat data for Culex species/forms across the UK, enabling the project to construct detailed vector probability maps, assessing the host feeding preference and vector competence of each of the species/forms and contributing to virus transmission simulation models across the UK.

The successful candidate must possess a valid full UK driving license and be open to travel within England and Wales as necessary (travel and expenses paid).

This role will be based at our UKHSA Porton Down near Salisbury (Manor Farm Road, Porton Down, Salisbury Wiltshire, SP4 0JG).

*Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.*