Research Associates (Public Health)

Deadline: January 10, 2025

Title: Special Scientist for Research (Research Associates)
No. of Positions: Two (2)
Category: Employment contract
Location: University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus

The KIOS Research and Innovation Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus announces two (2) Special Scientist for Research (Research Associate) positions focusing on protecting and improving community health through various interventions and health promotion strategies, for full-time employment. The successful candidates will contribute to research and innovation initiatives in the fields of Public and Environmental Health, Epidemiology, Infection Prevention and Control, One Health Surveillance, and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Who we are:
The KIOS Research and Innovation Center of Excellence is the largest research center at the University of Cyprus and in 2017 was upgraded to a European Research Center of Excellence through the KIOS CoE Teaming project. Currently, the Center employs more than 180 people who are supported by externally funded research and innovation projects. The KIOS CoE operates in a diverse environment as an equal opportunity employer.

What we do:
KIOS provides an inspiring environment for carrying out top level research and innovation in the area of Information and Communication Technologies, with emphasis on the Monitoring, Control and Security of Critical Infrastructures. Such infrastructures include power and energy systems, water networks, transportation networks, telecommunication networks and emergency management and response. The Center instigates interdisciplinary interaction and promotes collaboration between industry, academia, and research organizations in high-tech areas of global importance.

Why work at KIOS:
You will have the opportunity to work on various high-profile projects with great impact on society and the environment, not only on a local but also on a global scale.
In KIOS we strive to create a multicultural, diverse and inclusive workplace and we strongly support the continuous personnel evolvement and development, both personally and professionally, to fulfill your long-term goals. We offer internal and external professional training, covering both technical and soft skills.

Job Details
The successful candidates are expected to:
• Contribute to research and innovation initiatives in one or more of the following fields:
Public & Environmental Health: Engage in research that focuses on protecting and improving community health through various interventions and health promotion strategies, while also analyzing environmental factors, such as air and water quality, chemical exposures, and wastewater management, and their impact on health outcomes.
Epidemiology: Investigate disease patterns, risk factors, and health trends to inform public health strategies and interventions.
Infection Prevention & Control: Develop and evaluate infection control measures aimed at reducing healthcare-associated infections and ensuring patient and public safety.
One Health Surveillance: Collaborate across disciplines to monitor and address health threats that affect humans, animals, and the environment.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Conduct research to understand the mechanisms of AMR and develop strategies to combat resistant infections.
• Prepare reports and project deliverables.
• Produce, publish and present research results in high quality conferences and journals.
• Engage in the preparation of research and/or innovation proposals.

The required skills and expertise for the announced positions include one or more of the following areas:
• Data analytics
• Modeling
• Statistical analysis
• Machine learning
• Quantitative risk assessment
• Background expertise in Public and Environmental Health, Epidemiology, Infection Prevention and Control, One Health Surveillance, and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is highly desirable

Profile of the ideal candidate:
• Attention to detail
• Problem solving skills
• Team-player
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Flexible and eager to learn
• Able to adapt in a fast-paced dynamic environment
• Good communication, organizational and self-management skills
• Excellent knowledge of the Greek and English language

Qualifications and Experience:
• Bachelor’s and/or master’s degree in the field of Public Health, Epidemiology, Bioinformatics, Bioengineering, Biology, Medicine, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Doctorate degree or equivalent in the subject areas above or related fields.
• Previous involvement in EU-funded health projects or similar international health initiatives would be beneficial.

Employment Terms:
The positions are on a contract basis. Initially, a one-year contract will be offered, with a 6-month probation period, which is renewable based on performance. The gross monthly salary depends on the candidate’s qualifications and experience and will be between €2200 – €3200. From this amount, employee contributions to the Cyprus government funds will be deducted. A 13th salary bonus is incorporated in the monthly salary. Maternity leave will be granted based on Maternity Protection Law 1997(Ν.100(Ι)/1997), and the existing amendment laws.

Application:
Interested candidates should submit the following items online through the link:
https://applications.ucy.ac.cy/recruitment
• Cover letter explaining the interest of the applicant in pursuing a career at the KIOS CoE, along with employment availability date
• Short summary of prior work experiences, activities and accomplishments (can be combined with the cover letter) (2 pages maximum)
• A detailed curriculum vitae in English or in Greek
• Copies of transcripts of BSc/MSc/PhD or other degree(s)
• Copy of an English language certificate
• Identify at least two referees that can provide reference letters

The applications should be submitted as soon as possible, but not later than Friday, 10th of January 2025, at 5 pm. The evaluation of the applications will begin immediately. At least the best three candidates that satisfy the required qualifications will be interviewed by a 3-member Selection Committee. Candidates will be informed of the result of their application by the KIOS CoE.

Applicants need not be citizens of the Republic of Cyprus. Applicants should however ensure, before applying, that in case they are selected they will be residing in Cyprus on a full-time basis during the employment period and submission of application implies acceptance of this condition.

The University of Cyprus shall collect and process your personal data according to the provisions of the General Regulation on Personal Data 2016/679 (EU).

The University of Cyprus (UCY) is committed to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality, as well as the elimination of all forms of discrimination in order to provide a fair, safe, and pleasant environment for the entire university community, where students and staff members will feel supported both in their professional and personal development, within and beyond their multiple identities. To this end, UCY seeks to create the necessary conditions that will encourage and respect diversity and ensure dignity both in the workplace and society at large. Moreover, UCY has adopted specific policies to promote equal opportunities, as well as respect and understanding of diversity, while it is committed to promoting and maintaining a working, teaching, and learning environment, free from any form of discrimination, whether direct or indirect.

For more information, please contact the KIOS Center of Excellence, by phone at +357 22893460 or via e-mail at [email protected].