Postdoc A. Pandemic Preparedness of Underserved Groups

at  Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam

INTRODUCTION

The Pandemic & Disaster Preparedness Centre (PDPC), initiated by the Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Erasmus Medical Centre, and the Delft University of Technology, is looking for a Postdoctoral researcher in Pandemic Preparedness of Underserved Groups.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Erasmus MC, TU Delft and Erasmus University Rotterdam have joined forces in the Pandemic and Disaster Preparedness Center (PDPC). The PDPC aims to prepare society for future pandemics and disasters by carrying out research on how to build resilience through effective disaster prevention, preparedness and recovery measures. Convergence of the technical, medical and social sciences is essential for developing the next generation of approaches to disasters and pandemics. In the foreseeable future, our society can expect many more and unforeseen virus outbreaks and extreme events because of climate change. But how do we protect society from the next pandemic or disaster? Which of the lessons learnt could help develop prevention and intervention measures, and how could research contribute to preparedness?
The PDPC is based on the unique combination of world-renowned expertise on infectious diseases, climate research, research into floods and other water-related emergencies, empirical sociology, and crisis management. One of the Centre’s components is the PDPC Academy, which engages in knowledge transfer and education, has an academic workplace for short-term research projects, and carries out research on targeted interventions.
We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to lead the Underserved Groups project. This project aims to identify individual and contextual barriers and drivers for underserved groups towards the support for and compliance with public health and social measures implemented during a pandemic, using the recent COVID-19 pandemic as a case, in order to design tailored interventions for pandemic preparedness.
To do so, the WHO Tailoring Health Programmes Approach (THP) will be used, consisting of four phases: situation analysis, research, intervention design, implementation and evaluation. Phase 1 (situation analysis) has been completed (see report and webinar). The aim of phase 2 is to conduct qualitative research into the barriers and drivers to COVID-19 PHSM within a specific prioritized group. Based on the situational analysis and advice of the WHO, phase 2 the study will focus on gain insight into the individual and contextual factors contributing to the support for and compliance with public health and social measures implemented during a pandemic, using the recent COVID-19 pandemic as a case, of older people with a migrant background residing in Rotterdam. These behavioural and cultural insights are used to design tailored interventions for pandemic preparedness.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will initiate, develop, and execute research (Phase 2) with a primary focus on qualitative methodologies. This includes conducting focus groups and interviews. You will translate these findings into interventions (Phase 3), followed by implementation and evaluation (Phase 4), collaborating with various stakeholders throughout the process. Additionally, you will write scientific papers. You will also be a part of the PDCP NEXT network together with other PhD candidates and postdoc researchers in the PDPC. As part of your position, you will have the opportunity to engage in teaching and to work on your teaching portfolio for University Teaching Qualification (UTQ).

As a postdoctoral researcher you will:

• Design and conduct qualitative research activities, such as focus groups and interviews;
• Analyse qualitative data, and interpret the findings into concrete interventions for policy and practice;
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and professionals;
• Collaborate with other members of the research team and contribute to their projects when necessary;
• Write scientific articles and reports based on research findings;
• Present research outcomes at national and international conferences.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• A PhD in behavioral sciences, social or health psychology, sociology, or a related field;
• Affinity with the field of behaviour and infectious diseases/pandemics;
• Strong affinity and preferably experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, particularly focus groups and interviews among vulnerable groups;
• Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret qualitative data effectively;
• Good communication skills with professional oral and written command of English (C1-level CEFR or equivalent) and also Dutch (C1);
• Well organized with attention to detail;
• Professional attitude and keenness for working with external parties;
• Enthusiastic team player. Eager to work in a multidisciplinary team, yet also able to work independently.

Please refer the Job description for details