Junior researcher public health with a focus on the effect of school closures during pandemics

During the pandemic, school closures were implemented to limit the virus spread. Closing schools can have a large impact on students, leading to long-lasting consequences for society and the economy. In our PRESENT study, we map the varied effects of closures of secondary schools to better inform future decision-making. We will look at how closing schools limits the spread of COVID-19, analysing data on infections on schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and making a summary of previous studies on school closures. We will also investigate the effect for different vulnerable groups of closing schools on the educational performance of children, their transition to higher education and work, and the impact on mental wellbeing. Using all this information, we will weigh the economic costs and benefits. Finally, in a collaborative process with stakeholders we will translate our findings into recommendations regarding mitigation measures in schools in future pandemics.

We are looking for a researcher to strengthen our team. Your role will be to:

• Conduct a systematic literature review of available evidence (national and international) on the impact of school-closures on SARS-CoV-2 pandemic control.
• To support activities aiming to facilitate the exchange between researchers and stakeholders throughout the project.

You are inquisitive, reflective and eager to grow. We expect dedication and enthusiasm for innovative research, combined with scientific curiosity and the capacity for teamwork in an interdisciplinary environment. You are well organized and have attention to detail.

We are looking for a person:

• With a MSc degree and a background in a relevant field, such as Epidemiology, Public health, Health sciences, Global health, Biomedical sciences.
• With 1 - 2 years of (research) work experience in one of the relevant fields above.
• Who has preferably some experience with conducting literature reviews on complex topics.
• Who has good competence with quantitative research methods and at least basic competence in qualitative research methods.
• Who preferably has experience with organising and carrying out stakeholder workshops.
• Who has excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• With an excellent command of the Dutch (C1) and English language (C1-level CEFR or equivalent).

Erasmus MC, TU Delft and Erasmus University Rotterdam have joined forces in the Pandemic and Disaster Preparedness Center (PDPC). The PDPC aims to prepare society for future pandemics and disasters by carrying out research on how to build resilience through effective disaster prevention, preparedness and recovery measures. Convergence of the technical, medical and social sciences is essential for developing the next generation of approaches to disasters and pandemics.

The PDPC is based on the unique combination of world-renowned expertise on infectious diseases, climate research, research into floods and other water-related emergencies, empirical sociology, and crisis management. One of the Centre's components is the PDPC Academy, which engages in knowledge transfer and education, has an academic workplace for short-term research projects, and carries out research on targeted interventions.

The PDPC acquires external funding. This position is funded by ZonMw, projectnr. 10430382410006 in relation to the call Medium term effects of Covid-19 measures.

The consortium consists of Erasmus MC, Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, UMC Utrecht, Nivel and SEO Economisch Onderzoek. You will be located at the Erasmus MC in Rotterdam.

For more information about this position, please contact Anja Schreijer, medical director PDPC via a.schreijer@erasmusmc.nl.