Research Fellow in Health Services Systems Modelling at University of Sussex

### About the Role

The primary objective of this position is to conduct research on the NIHR-funded project, “Adaptations To Strengthen Healthcare Delivery And Resilience To Extreme Weather Events In Southern Africa” (ASTRA). This project aims to involve and collaborate with stakeholders, including community members, to design and implement research that identifies, prioritizes, and evaluates interventions to enhance the resilience of communities and health systems against extreme weather events (EWEs). The research specifically targets vulnerable populations living with HIV and/or tuberculosis in Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia. Project partners include the Africa Health Research Institute in Durban, Aurum Institute, Zambart, Fundação Aurum, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

This role involves developing a Systems Dynamics model of the healthcare system for individuals with HIV and/or TB in each country case study, to evaluate its response to EWEs. These models will optimize health system performance prior to in vivo testing of pilot programs and enhance health system resilience. The methodology follows the approach used by Semwanga et al. (2016) for exploring policy options to improve neonatal health in Uganda (Health Research Policy and Systems 14, 35, doi:10.1186/s12961-016-0101-8).

### About You

The ideal candidate will possess a doctoral degree or an equivalent qualification, or have significant relevant experience. You should have a track record of high-quality research, exceptional presentation skills, and the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Given the nature of the work, the role requires the ability to work independently and autonomously in South Africa, Mozambique, and Zambia, showcasing innovation and creative problem-solving skills.

The successful candidate must have in-depth knowledge of developing system dynamics models and demonstrable expertise in programming. Strong interpersonal and social skills are essential for engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders. Experience in developing training materials and conducting training workshops is also preferable.

### About Our School

We are a global hub at the heart of Sussex University. Our engaged research and critical pedagogy address the most pressing global issues of our times, including global social justice, environmental change and climate justice, war and peace, migration, global health, human rights, identity, and inequality. Our mission is to generate transformative research and real-world teaching that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to work towards a fairer, safer, more sustainable, and more inclusive world.

We are committed to inspiring a curiosity-driven approach to teaching and research that seeks creative solutions to the social, environmental, economic, and political crises facing the world today. Global Studies distinguishes itself through interdisciplinary research across departments, ambitious global outlook, and a commitment to decolonizing, anti-racist, and reparative justice in teaching, research, and civic engagement.

For more information about the School of Global Studies, please visit our website.

### Further Key Information

For informal inquiries, please contact Professor Dominic Kniveton at kafw3@sussex.ac.uk.

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds