System Dynamics Modeler (80-100%)

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international levels. 1’000 people from 96 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on infectious and non-communicable diseases, environment, society and health as well as health systems and interventions.

The Systems Innovation Research Group (SIRG) applies systems thinking approaches to health systems, shaping the way policymakers, managers, researchers, and practitioners approach health system challenges. SIRG’s work promotes a shift in the design and implementation of health interventions toward approaches that recognize and engage with complexity, with the aim of improving health outcomes and advancing social justice for all.

In an upcoming environmental health initiative, SIRG leads the development of system dynamics modelling to examine exposure pathways, population health effects, and policy levers in urban contexts, and integrates these insights into digital twin tools that support evidence-informed decision-making. SIRG also leads participatory workshops with stakeholders to ensure that model development, validation, and scenario exploration are grounded in local knowledge, institutional realities, and meaningful citizen engagement.

This position provides an opportunity to work as part of a multicultural, dedicated team in an academic and applied research environment. This role will contribute to and beyond health systems modeling, supporting decision-making and policy planning at local and international levels.

Your position

o Contribute to developing system dynamics models for urban, environmental, and health applications, as well as other projects within the SIRG group, using Stella Architect

• Lead participatory model-building workshops with stakeholders to ensure co-production, shared understanding, and grounded model structures
• Lead model development processes, including data collection, calibration, validation, and comprehensive documentation
• Prepare key deliverables such as simulation outputs, data visualizations, technical reports, and academic manuscripts
• Support capacity building by providing training and guidance to partners, stakeholders, and collaborators
• Contribute to development of new research proposals in the area of system dynamics modeling, including multi-country and multi-partner proposal development

  Your profile

  o PhD (or Master’s) in system dynamics with relevant professional experience o Experience in system dynamics modeling in Stella, and participatory group model building approaches, are essential o Strong analytical skills and a methodical approach to data management and analysis o High-level organizational and time management skills in managing input from multiple stakeholders o High proficiency in spoken and written English. Proficiency in Spanish, Portuguese, or French is an advantage
• Strong interpersonal communication skills, with ability to foster an inclusive workplace culture that values collaboration, diversity of thought, and cultural competency
  
  

  We offer you

  o Meaningful work in an international environment addressing complex global health challenges using system thinking and modeling methods o A state-of-the-art workplace on the dynamic BaseLink site in Allschwil, fostering innovation and collaboration o Opportunities for professional development and mentoring, supporting growth in academic and applied research o A diverse and inclusive workplace culture that values collaboration, diversity of thought, and cultural competency, in line with Swiss TPH’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) o Being part of a committed and motivated team involved in impactful global health initiatives, including partnerships with international organizations and stakeholders o We warmly welcome applications from women and other underrepresented groups in science, health systems, and modeling. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and welcome applications from candidates who bring relevant expertise, even if their profile does not perfectly match every requirement.

Job conditions

• Start Date: March 2026 (As soon as possible upon agreement)
• Duration: One year
• Percentage: 80-100%
• Location: Basel, Switzerland
• Travel required: 20-30% of the time, depending on stakeholder engagement and project needs
• Internal job title: Scientific Collaborator II

Application
Please submit your application online.

• CV o Motivational letter including names and contact information (email or phone number) of 1 - 2 references o Reference letters and diploma Swiss TPH is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace that values and respects differences across gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. We believe that diversity strengthens our work, and we are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all.

Please note that we can only accept applications via our online recruiting tool. As long as the position is online on our company website, we are open to new applications. Applications via e-mail or external recruiter/agency will not be considered.

Join us in improving people’s health and well-being worldwide - we look forward to receiving your application.

Contact
Daniel Cobos, MD MSc PhD
Group Leader, Systems Innovation Research Group
Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute
Email: daniel.cobos@ swisstph.ch

Apply

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