ThaiNGO

Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU)

Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University

Job title:      Research Scientist – Malaria Genomic Epidemiology (Contract)

Report to:    Professor Olivo Miotto, Principal Investigator of GenRe-Mekong

Background

MORU is a collaboration between Mahidol University (Thailand), Oxford University (UK) and the UK's Wellcome Trust. For over 40 years, MORU has conducted targeted clinical trials and public health research that aim to discover and develop appropriate, affordable interventions that measurably improve the health of people living in resource-limited parts of the world.

The GenRe-Mekong project, housed within MORU, is a multi-country, prospective genetic surveillance initiative. The project collaborates closely with the national malaria control programmes (NMCPs) of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, to provide actionable knowledge on malaria public health activities. Active since 2017, the project collects finger-prick dried blood samples from malaria patients at numerous public healthcare facilities. These samples undergo genotyping to assess antimalarial resistance and population similarity, crucial for assessing strain tracking and outbreaks, among other factors. Results are processed using an in-house R-package and bioinformatical tools to generate reports, which are then communicated with NMCPs. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Global Fund, GenRe-Mekong has systematically and continuously processed samples from over 12,000 patients. While historically focused primarily on P. falciparum, the GenRe-Mekong project will be expanding surveillance efforts to develop genetic surveillance tools for other Plasmodium species, particularly P. vivax, to support NMCPs in their malaria elimination efforts.

About the role

The Research Scientist will be part of the GenRe-Mekong core analysis team at MORU, based in Bangkok. They will work on the genetic data generated by GenRe-Mekong, conducting analysis and research leading to timely, meaningful, and actionable information for public health and the research community. The post is ideal for an analytical individual who possesses good communication skills and a strong interest in genomics, bioinformatics, and epidemiology. It’s well-suited for those who wish to directly apply scientific knowledge to address important global health problems, thus making a real impact in the GMS region and globally. The Research Scientist will have excellent opportunities for growth, skill development, and international exposure, as well as contributing to publications and developing individual research interests.

Core Accountabilities

• The Research Scientist will be responsible for the routine management of the genetic data to be delivered to scientific partners and other stakeholders.
• The Research Scientist will be responsible for analyses of genetic data to produce Genetic Report Cards, and produce written reports for NMCPs containing information relevant to public health activities about the parasite populations in the areas surveyed, including antimalarial resistance.
• The Research Scientist will analyse genetic data as part of genetic epidemiology studies. This work will be driven by research questions, and conducted on large global datasets of samples genotyped using amplicon sequencing and whole genome sequencing. Analyses will result in datasets, presentations, publications, and other forms of dissemination.
• The Research Scientist will assist other members of the GenRe-Mekong analysis team to support scientific partners and NMCPs data analyses, event participation and data training.
• The Research Scientist will work with other members of the GenRe-Mekong team on improving analysis methods for surveillance and genomic epidemiology. This may include: evaluations and quality assessments of generated datasets; evaluations and testing of the in-house R-package; development and improvement of bioinformatical pipelines; development of alternative or new methods working with scientists outside MORU; development of P. vivax surveillance tools

Qualifications:

• Master's Degree and Doctoral degree (PhD) in Science are preferred
• Excellent command of English is essential

Knowledge, skills, and experience

Required

• A person that has interdisciplinary skills on one or all topics of genetics, bioinformatics, epidemiology, and public health. For the topics the applicant is not familiar with, she or he can demonstrate how to enthusiastically fill any knowledge gaps required to perform their work-tasks.
• A team player, focused on what is best for the organization, actively contributing to leadership meetings and supporting peers
• Good report-writing skills (in English). Ability to create high-quality figures.
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Word
• Ability to execute software tools and scripts (for example, R). Programming ability is a definite advantage.
• Ability to undertake scientific analyses of large-scale genomic data under guidance
• Ability to document analysis steps, and data management to allow for structure and reproducibility of shared work
• Critical thinking, complex problem-solving, flexibility, and attention to detail
• Preferred
• Experience with bioinformatics tools and/or data science is advantageous
• Knowledge of programming in R, Python, or Java is advantageous
• Experience working with research groups involved in genomics is advantageous
• Working knowledge of molecular laboratory techniques is advantageous
• Attention to detail, organization, and ability to flag data/analysis issues

Terms of employment

This position is offered on a consultancy contract basis with an initial offer until the end of project fund availability in January 2025. The continuing yearly fixed-term contract will be offered based on performance and subject to funding availability. 

** Note for international applicants: This position requires residency in Bangkok. Visa sponsorship is not provided, and employment will be offered on a consultancy basis with a local salary. **

For a candidate wishing to apply, please provide both of the following documents as part of your application

1.An up-to-date resume/CV (maximum 2 pages)

2.A 1-page cover letter, explaining your professional objectives and why you should be considered for this role

(Optional) We strongly encourage candidates to include examples of their work, such as written pieces (in a scientific report style) and graphics/figures showcasing their skills. Submitting up to 2 pages of such examples will greatly aid in the application process.

The successful application, including an updated CV and a 1-page cover letter, will be submitted to

Professor Olivo Miotto, Senior Informatics Fellow & PI of GenRe-Mekong

Email: pannapat@tropmedres.ac

Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU)

Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University

420/6 Rajvithi Road, Bangkok 10400