Are you a STEM graduate student ready to apply your expertise to real-world, high-impact problems in pandemic science? This summer, the NSF APPEX Center (Analysis and Prediction of Pandemic Expansion) invites you to be part of cutting-edge research projects exploring the critical factors that drive the spread of pandemics.
We’re seeking curious, collaborative, and creative minds across STEM fields, including:
● Biology, Ecology, Public Health, Epidemiology
● Environmental & Earth Sciences
● Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Systems, Biomedical)
● Computer Science, AI/ML, Data Science
● Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Network Science
● Social & Behavioral Sciences with quantitative or systems perspectives
Why Join Us?
● Work on dynamic, multidisciplinary projects identifying the “perfect storm” of human-driven factors that turn outbreaks into pandemics.
● Participate in weekly professional development activities.
● Contribute to innovative working groups tackling research questions at the intersection of health, infrastructure, behavior, and technology.
● Gain experience in systems modeling, simulation tools, generative AI applications, and case-control methodologies—all within the context of emerging global health threats.
● Be part of a research center that values creativity, inclusivity, and scientific audacity.
What You'll Do:
● Collaborate with established Project Teams to advance scientific research and discovery.
● Dive into data, models, and policy-relevant research to assess pandemic expansion risks.
● Help build tools, frameworks, and real-time responses to multifactorial outbreak conditions.
● Engage in professional development through APPEX workshops, mentoring, and outreach.
Your Application:
Please email your application materials via email to GradSummer@appex.org. The application requirements are as follows:
●
Work Authorization: A statement confirming that you have existing valid authorization to work in the United States.
● A cover letter highlighting your interest and desire to work as a part of a multi-disciplinary team studying pandemic science.
● A resume/CV highlighting your professional experience.
● A brief (1–3 paragraph)
description of a proposed case-control study (s
ee example case-control manuscript) that you believe could meaningfully contribute to understanding pandemic expansion dynamics.
Your proposal should include:
o A clear research question,
o Definition of cases and controls,
o Exposure variables of interest,
o Data sources (real or hypothetical),
o A short explanation of potential impact.
Important: The study you propose will NOT necessarily be your summer research project. Instead, it will serve as an idea-generation exercise to help the APPEX Center identify promising directions and generate broader interest in case-control study research related to pandemic expansion. We encourage bold, interdisciplinary, and creative ideas!!
Program Details
●
Eligibility: Graduate students and postdoctoral associates with valid U.S. work authorization
● Location: Remote, with the possibility of short in-person Project Team gatherings
● Duration: Summer 2026 (specific dates negotiated between interns and Project Teams)
● Compensation: Competitive stipend + travel support (if applicable)
● Apply by: April 15, 2026 for best consideration. The application will remain open until April 30, 2026.
● Questions? Contact: GradSummer@appex.org
Postdoctoral Research Scholar:
● Location: Arizona State University (West Valley Campus, Phoenix, AZ)
● Remote Option: Possible with annual approval
● Salary: $65,000–$70,000/year
● Application Deadline: April 20, 2026
Role Overview
This position focuses on mathematical and computational modeling in network and pandemic science. The selected candidate will:
Conduct interdisciplinary research in network science and pandemic modeling
Collaborate across 2–4 research working groups annually
Publish and present research findings
Engage in team science, mentoring, and broader academic activities
Qualifications
Minimum:
Preferred:
Experience with mathematical modeling and data analysis
Programming skills (e.g., R, Python, Matlab)
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Experience publishing or presenting research
Commitment to working with diverse student populations
About APPEX
APPEX is a national NSF-funded center focused on understanding how outbreaks become pandemics through mathematical and computational modeling. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration across fields such as sociology, computer science, ecology, and physics.
Application Instructions
Applications will be reviewed starting April 20, 2026, and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Additional Information
Arizona State University is a leading public research institution known for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Learn more:
https://newcollege.asu.edu/
