PhD Candidate Position in Bayesian Spatial Analysis or Spatial Epidemiology

Funded PhD Candidate Position in Bayesian Spatial Analysis or Spatial Epidemiology at the University of Waterloo, Canada

The PhD candidate is expected to be admitted to the University of Waterloo PhD program in the School of Planning, Faculty of Environment, or Health Studies and Gerontology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, leading to the degree of a PhD within 4 years. The start date for this position is September 2010, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Background

Dr. Jane Law is an assistant professor in the School of Planning and is jointly appointed to the Department of Health Studies and Gerontology. Under her supervision, the successful candidate will develop and/or apply advanced spatial analysis methodologies using a Bayesian statistical approach, which is a project supported by NSERC. Applications of the methodologies will be in population health, urban planning, crime mapping, and/or other areas of health studies and social sciences.

Required knowledge and skills

The ideal candidate should

1. Possess a master’s degree or a corresponding degree in GIS, spatial analysis, statistics, geomatics, planning, environmental sciences, geography, health studies, public health, epidemiology, or a similar subject.
2. Be interested in spatial data analysis and statistics.
3. Have strong analytical mind and skills.
4. Be a proactive researcher and have the ability to work independently.
5. Have good written and spoken English skills.

Knowledge and experience of Bayesian methodologies, WinBUGS, RIF, MLwiN, GeoDa, SpaceStat, SaTScan, ArcGIS, SPLUS, SPSS, SAS, Stata, Access, Beyond 20/20, Visual Basic, or R is an asset. Please state in your application your experience with Bayesian methodologies and these software packages, if any.

Applications

For those who would like to apply, please submit an electronic application consisting of a cover letter, CV, one sample of your writing on spatial analysis or quantitative methodologies, and one page statement on why you are interested and suitable for the position. Further documents might be requested if the applicant is selected for consideration. Applications or enquiries should be sent to Prof. Jane Law ( j9law(at)uwaterloo.ca) with subject "Funded PhD Position" before June 15, 2010. However, applications will be considered until the position is filled.