Postdoctoral Researcher: Avian Influenza Virus Evolution and Transmission in Live Bird Markets

This postdoctoral position at INRAE’s Host-Pathogens Interactions unit (IHAP) focuses on analyzing the drivers of avian influenza virus evolution and transmission in live bird market networks in Cambodia. The successful candidate will leverage a unique longitudinal dataset from the ERC-funded TrackFLU project, combining genomic sequencing and epidemiological data to identify factors influencing viral co-circulation and reassortment. The work will involve advanced phylodynamic and computational analyses, with opportunities for collaboration with international partners, including Institut Pasteur du Cambodge and ETH Zürich. The position is based in Toulouse, France, with potential short-term missions to Cambodia, offering a dynamic environment for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of pathogen genomics and infectious disease epidemiology.

• Conduct phylodynamic and computational analyses of whole-genome sequences from avian influenza viruses collected in Cambodian live bird markets.
• Link viral genomic data with longitudinal epidemiological and ecological datasets to identify factors driving viral co-circulation and reassortment.
• Develop and apply statistical models to analyze pathogen transmission dynamics within complex market networks.
• Collaborate with international partners, including Institut Pasteur du Cambodge and ETH Zürich, to integrate findings into broader research frameworks.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and contribute to scientific publications.
• Supervise and co-supervise master’s and PhD students as part of the TrackFLU project.
• Participate in short-term field missions to Cambodia for data collection and dissemination activities.