Professor Trypanosoma

Department of Biomedical Sciences – Trypanosoma Unit

For a more detailed research context, please refer to the PDF document.

Your role:

· Develop an innovative and internationally competitive research programme on trypanosomes, with a strong foundation in fundamental parasite biology and/or host–parasite–vector interactions.

· Develop, apply and disseminate state-of-the-art experimental approaches in fundamental research, which may include advanced molecular biology, biochemistry, imaging, cell biology, multi-omics and/or computational methods, according to the candidate’s expertise and research interest.

· Be willing to take responsibility for and further develop the unit’s existing translational and applied research portfolio, including its contribution to HAT diagnosis, molecular surveillance and control programmes, as well as the scientific use and maintenance of its tsetse fly facility.

· Establish and foster strong global partnerships and collaborations.

· Acquire competitive research funding and build up international reputation and visibility.

· Contribute actively to the development and delivery of the educational portfolio of the Department of Biomedical Sciences and ITM, including supervision of Master students and PhD training.

· Build and lead a team of scientific and technical staff, take up management responsibilities appropriate to the academic level.

· Collaborate with other units in the Department of Biomedical Sciences and ITM to develop complementary research lines on vector-borne and protozoan diseases.

· Contribute expertise to national and international bodies and stakeholders, where relevant to the candidate’s field.

· Oversee and direct ITM’s WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training on Human African Trypanosomiasis Diagnostics.

· Promote and contribute to the strategic vision of the department and to relevant ITM committees.

Profile / Requirements

· A PhD degree in biology, veterinary sciences, biomedical sciences, biochemistry, medicine, or equivalent field.

· An excellent research profile in experimental/molecular parasitology of Trypanosomatids.

· Experience with advanced experimental and/or computational approaches relevant to the proposed research programme.

· A proven track record of successful grant writing and project supervision, in accordance with the candidate’s career stage.

· A collaborative scientific profile and ability to develop interdisciplinary and international collaborations.

· Experience in translational or applied research, capacity strengthening, and collaboration with institutions in endemic countries is considered an asset.

· Prior experience in running a tsetse fly facility is not essential, though an interest in helping to run and utilize the tsetse facilities is considered an asset.

· Experience in academic teaching and training in the field of parasitology is highly valued.

· Excellent communication skills and respectful people management skills.

· Fluent in English. Knowledge of French is an asset. Active knowledge of Dutch is desirable. If you do not have these skills, willingness to acquire a working level of Dutch is requested.

· You support the mission and values of the ITM.