PhD Student in the field of Cancer Screening

Job description

Are you passionate about research that directly contributes to improving public health? Do you want to help make cervical cancer screening more efficient, while ensuring that fewer women are referred unnecessarily? Then join us as our new PhD Student on the CAMBIOS study (Comparison of BIOmarker tests to iMprove efficiency and Access of cervical Screening).

The aim of CAMBIOS is to reduce unnecessary referrals after an HPV-positive test result in the Dutch cervical cancer screening programme, while maintaining or increasing the number of cancers prevented. To achieve this, we are conducting a prospective observational study, comparing several alternative biomarker tests (DNA methylation, double staining of P16/Ki-67, HPV viral load and genotyping) with the current standard of care. These tests will be applied to smears and self-samples within the national screening programme. In addition, we use the MISCAN microsimulation model to estimate the long-term health effects and costs of applying different biomarker strategies.

As a PhD Student, you will play a central role in this project. You will collect and analyse data, contribute to the design and interpretation of the study, and collaborate closely with your colleagues and external partners. You will also be responsible for sharing your findings, both within the academic community and beyond.

Your main tasks include:

• Collecting, analysing and interpreting study data.
• Writing scientific papers and presenting your work at conferences.
• Contributing to study design and providing input during team discussions.
• Coordinating with collaborators to ensure timelines and milestones are met.
• Supporting the translation of research results into practice and policy.

Work environment

At Erasmus MC, we work on improving today’s healthcare and tomorrow’s population health. We conduct groundbreaking research, push boundaries, and lead the way in innovation.

You will be based at the Department of Public Health, where we aim to improve population health at local, national and international level. Our work is highly multidisciplinary and focused on developing and applying innovative methods. Collaboration and direct impact on policy and practice are at the heart of what we do. Learn more at Public Health Rotterdam..

Within this department, the Early Detection & Screening research programme focuses on quantifying the effects of screening across a wide range of diseases. Our work helps individuals, clinicians and policymakers make informed choices about the benefits, harms and costs of screening, and supports the development of evidence-based public health policy.

Qualifications and skills

We are looking for a motivated and ambitious candidate with a strong analytical mindset and a collaborative spirit. You have:

• An MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Health Sciences, Biology, Public Health, Epidemiology, Medicine or a related field.
• Strong skills in quantitative analysis and scientific communication.
• The ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Interest in project management and coordinating research activities.
• Preferably, experience working in a laboratory.

In addition, we highly value candidates who are eager to develop their skills in areas such as leadership, creativity, initiative, goal-oriented working, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

A challenging position within the largest University Medical Center (UMC) in the Netherlands with high ambitions in healthcare, education, and research.

• A temporary contract for a period of 4 years.
• The gross monthly salary is € 3.108,- in the 1st year and gradually increases to € 3.939 ,- in the 4th year (scale OIO) based on a fulltime workweek of 36 hours.
• Excellent secondary benefits, such as a 13th month paid in November and a personal travel allowance.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We cover approximately two-thirds of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as a physiotherapist and a bicycle repair shop. There's also a sports club where you can work on your fitness after work.

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 Dr. I.M.C.M. de Kok, Associate Professor in Public Health via: e-mail.

No agencies please.