Research Opportunities
PhD Opportunities
PhD position (4-year full-time)
Project title: Individual bovine variation in the transmission and diagnosis of Mycobacterium bovis
Supervisors: Dr Miriam Casey (UCD School of Veterinary Medicine) and Dr Michael Fop (UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics)
Start date: May 2026
Deadline: 26th January 2026
Funding: Tax-free stipend of €25,000 per year, plus an additional allowance for tuition fees, training, travel, and equipment.
Please follow this link for the complete description.
Project overview
Bovine tuberculosis causes major impacts on livestock industries and wildlife conservation worldwide. In cattle, disease progression, infectiousness, and diagnostic test responses vary between individuals—heterogeneities that can reduce the accuracy of epidemiological models and the effectiveness of control policies.
This PhD will use statistical and mechanistic modelling to quantify and better understand animal-level variation in transmission and diagnosis, with the aim of informing targeted interventions for bovine TB control. The project draws on large datasets, interdisciplinary supervision, and engagement with control programme managers and policy makers.
Eligibility
Applications are welcome from:
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Biological sciences graduates with strong quantitative/programming skills, or
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Quantitative/computational graduates interested in One Health and applied infectious disease problems.
Requirements:
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At least a 2:1 honours degree (or expected).
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Proficiency in statistical modelling and experience with R and/or Python (or similar).
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A relevant Master’s (e.g., infectious disease epidemiology or biostatistics) is desirable.
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Applicants whose first language is not English must meet UCD English language requirements.
How to apply
Email Dr Miriam Casey at (opens in a new window)miriam.casey@ucd.ie with:
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A comprehensive CV (including education/grades and two academic referees)
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Academic transcripts
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A cover letter/statement of purpose (max 2 pages) explaining fit and motivation
Email subject line: PhD application - bTB modeling [Your Name] (applications not in this format will not be considered)
Review timeline: Evaluation begins late-January 2026 and continues on a rolling basis until filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Informal queries: (opens in a new window)miriam.casey@ucd.ie