Advance Your Research Career: PhD in Mathematical Modelling of Diseases with AIMS & University of Toronto for a period of 2-3 years.

PhD Fellowship in Mathematical Modelling of Diseases
One Year at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto & 2–3 Years at AIMS Senegal

Background

The frequency and severity of disease outbreaks are on the rise, driven by factors such as climate change, increased human interaction with wildlife habitats, and growing urbanization. In this complex landscape, the One Health approach—acknowledging the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health—has never been more important. Emerging diseases often span across species and ecosystems, requiring a coordinated, interdisciplinary response informed by robust scientific analysis.

To effectively anticipate, understand, and control these public health threats, decision-makers require tools that can analyze vast and complex datasets. In recent years, mathematical modeling and artificial intelligence (AI) have become vital for identifying disease risks, forecasting outbreaks, and optimizing interventions. However, despite the availability of such technologies, many African researchers face systemic barriers to accessing advanced training and resources, limiting their ability to apply AI and mathematical modeling within local public health contexts.

To address this gap, Global Affairs Canada, through its BCDI 2030 program, is supporting an innovative collaboration between the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Senegal and the Dalla Lana School of Public Health (DLSPH) at the University of Toronto. This initiative will support the training of African PhD students in the mathematical modeling of infectious diseases, fostering interdisciplinary research and global policy engagement.

Program Overview

This PhD fellowship is designed to produce a new generation of African researchers with advanced skills in mathematical modeling, data science, and AI, specifically focused on health applications. Fellows will receive training in Canada and Senegal, gaining exposure to global best practices while remaining grounded in African public health priorities.

The selected candidates will spend:

• One year at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, engaging in advanced training and collaborative research at the Artificial Intelligence and Mathematical Modelling Lab
• Followed by 2–3 years at AIMS Senegal, where they will conduct research under a dual supervision arrangement between the two institutions.

This unique structure provides fellows with international exposure, rigorous academic mentorship, and direct links to policymaking circles, ensuring their research contributes meaningfully to both academic knowledge and practical health outcomes.

Research Focus

The PhD projects will focus on the development and application of dynamical systems and differential equations for modeling infectious diseases. These projects will be grounded in public health realities and informed by the One Health framework. Areas of application may include:

• Transmission dynamics of emerging infectious diseases,
• Impact of climate change on vector-borne illnesses,
• Optimization of vaccination and intervention strategies,
• Modeling antimicrobial resistance patterns,
• AI-enhanced forecasting of epidemic outbreaks.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong motivation for research at the intersection of mathematics, health, and data science, and a desire to develop practical solutions to real-world health challenges.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a Master’s degree in mathematical sciences or a closely related field from an accredited institution (a two-year master’s degree is preferred).
• Demonstrate a strong interest in dynamical systems, differential equations, and their application to health challenges.
• Show proficiency in coding and computational tools commonly used in mathematical modeling (e.g., Python, Matlab, Mathematica).
• Exhibit a track record of academic excellence and a strong interest in interdisciplinary research.
• Possess good communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Be a citizen of an African country.

Applicants should be self-motivated, collaborative, and passionate about addressing public health issues through quantitative research and innovation.

Why Apply?

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to:

• Work with leading global researchers in mathematical modeling and public health,
• Receive dual supervision and training from two world-renowned institutions,
• Contribute to impactful research aimed at improving health systems and disease preparedness in Africa,
• Build networks with academic, governmental, and non-governmental stakeholders across continents.

Graduates of the program will be well-positioned to influence public health policy, lead academic and applied research initiatives, and mentor the next generation of African scientists.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should prepare:

• A detailed CV,
• A statement of purpose (outlining research interests and motivations),
• Academic transcripts,
• Two letters of recommendation.

Further details on the application process, deadlines, and submission platform will be provided on the AIMS Senegal and DLSPH websites.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.