Junior Researcher Cancer Screening

Job description

You will conduct quantitative research on risk factors and trends in lung cancer across the EU. Your findings will be published in scientific journals and contribute to an online tool that helps EU member states assess their expected lung cancer burden and the potential impact of implementing screening programs.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in Europe, causing over 200,000 deaths annually. Mortality can be reduced by promoting smoking cessation and, increasingly, by early detection through screening programs. Many European countries do not yet have such programs, and both their potential benefits and required resources remain unclear. As smoking rates decline, it becomes essential to quantify the role of non-tobacco risk factors such as radon exposure, occupational hazards, and outdoor air pollution.

As part of an EU-funded project, you will:

• Analyse EU-wide health survey data and perform large-scale microsimulation modelling.
• Forecast high-risk populations in each member state.
• Collaborate with partners across Europe to develop evidence-based tools for policy decision-making.
• Present research at international conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to other EU initiatives, including lung cancer screening implementation support and the EUCanScreen project.

Work environment

At the Department of Public Health, we work to improve population health locally, nationally, and internationally through high-quality research and education. Our multidisciplinary team focuses on developing and applying innovative methods with direct impact on policy and practice.

The Screening Evaluation research group leads projects that assess the effectiveness of screening in reducing mortality and morbidity. Using advanced microsimulation modelling, we support public health policy and help individuals make informed decisions about participation in screening programs. Our department is recognized for its expertise both nationally by the Ministry of Health and the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and internationally, including collaborations with the United States National Cancer Institute and the European Commission.

Qualifications and skills

• An MSc degree in Health Sciences, Public Health, Epidemiology, Medicine, Mathematics, Econometrics, Health Economics, Biostatistics, or a related field.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with interest in large-data analysis and modelling.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, for scientific audiences.
• The ability to work effectively in an international, multidisciplinary team.
• Initiative, creativity, and a results-driven approach.

We offer you the opportunity to deepen your expertise in quantitative research, advanced data analysis, modelling, and scientific writing, while contributing to meaningful health policy impact across Europe.

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

• You will receive a temporary position for 2 years.
• The gross monthly salary amounts a minimum of € 3.598,- and a maximum of € 5.669,- (scale 10).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a individual travel expense package. 
• An International Office which aids you in preparing for you arrival and stay. 
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution. 
• Special benefits, such as a in-company physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work. 

This position is offered for 24 months, with the possibility of extension for a PhD trajectory upon mutual agreement.

More information

Make this job your next career move! Apply now using the application button. It all starts with taking action. 

For more information about this position, please contact Koen de Nijs, Scientific Researcher, phone number: 06 421 123 41 or e-mail: k.denijs@erasmusmc.nl.

For other information please contact Eveline Heijnsdijk, Assistant Professor, e-mail: e.heijnsdijk@erasmusmc.nl.

This vacancy is being displayed internally and externally simultaneously. In the event of equal suitability, internal candidates will be given priority.

No agencies please.