Job Description

The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to support the delivery of the NIHR-funded Opt-AMR project, led by Professor Joseph Valadez. The successful candidate will join the METRe (Monitoring, Evaluation, Technical Assistance and Research) Group, a multi-disciplinary team focused on strengthening the use of high-quality data to guide health programmes and policies in low-resource settings.


Opt-AMR (Optimising Antimicrobial Use to Reduce Resistance-AMR) is a flagship research programme working in Malawi, Uganda, and Zambia to test an innovative surveillance system to monitor AMR at a local level in urban, periurban and rural communities, and to understand how antibiotic use and prescribing practices of febrile illness in children under five contributes to AMR). This post offers a unique opportunity to be part of cutting-edge translational research, delivering real-world impact on global health security and quality of care in low-income settings.

Key responsibilities will include:

Research Management and Technical Leadership

Support the Principal Investigator in planning and implementing Opt-AMR project activities Manage day-to-day research operations and fieldwork activities Analyse and interpret data from Opt-AMR and other related datasets Ensure data practices adhere to project data management plans and data protection standards Provide expert technical advice on both quantitative and qualitative research methods Lead on the preparation of research manuscripts and scientific outputs Present study findings at meetings and contribute to discussions with project stakeholders

Research Analysis and Dissemination

Analyse quantitative data, qualitative interview transcripts, and lab-generated data (e.g., swab samples) Develop compelling and accessible presentations of findings for diverse audiences Produce peer-reviewed journal articles and scientific reports Contribute research ideas and support the development of future project proposals Communicate results effectively within the research group and with external partners

Collaboration with Laboratory Teams

Liaise with laboratory teams in-country and at LSTM to support sample testing and analysis Ensure seamless coordination between field-based research teams and laboratory processes

Capacity Strengthening

Assist in training and supervising MPH students and field data collectors Provide mentoring and support to junior researchers involved in the Opt-AMR project

The successful candidate will possess:

A PhD in public health, epidemiology, development studies, health systems research, or a related field, or a clinical qualification (e.g., MBBS, MD, Nursing credential). Strong understanding of health system challenges and AMR in low-income countries Demonstrated experience in conducting field-based research using mixed methods Proficiency in data analysis and synthesis, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches Track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences Excellent project management, communication, and teamwork skills Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team Willingness to travel internationally as required

In Return We Offer:

30 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional Christmas closure days Generous occupational pension schemes Government-backed "cycle to work" scheme Discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre A range of additional family-friendly policies

Application Process:

To apply, please upload your CV and a covering letter via the apply link. Given the volume of applications, we may close vacancies early, so we encourage early applications.

Inclusion is Central to Our Values at LSTM

We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith, social background, age, or disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience. We welcome applications from individuals seeking flexible working arrangements or returning to employment after a career break.

About LSTM

Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations, and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people in resource-limited settings.


Look at some of the great work we have achieved over the past year by viewing our annual report: https://www.lstmed.ac.uk/about/annual-reports-and-financial-statements