The persistence of large inequalities in health, disease and premature mortality between people with a different socioeconomic position is one of the main challenges for public health. While knowledge of the magnitude of socioeconomic inequalities in health, and the factors that are involved in their explanation, has accumulated, less progress has been made in identifying how these inequalities can be reduced. This project aims to address this deficiency by combining novel statistical techniques for the evaluation of natural experiments with large longitudinal and administrative databases to identify what policies affect the distribution of health by socioeconomic status.

Possible topics to be studied include: Do lifestyle interventions, prevention programs and medical care reduce or widen the health gap between socioeconomic groups? Are social policies aiming at poverty reduction or better access to education effective ways to reduce health inequalities? After an initial scoping phase specific study areas will be selected, e.g. cancer screening, perinatal care, tobacco control, health care reform, income support. The project is part of a larger program of studies ("Smarter choices for better health") and will be conducted in close collaboration with another PhD project primarily based at the Erasmus School of Economics.

The candidate is expected to have (i) a (research) master degree in Health Sciences, Epidemiology, Health Economics, or a related field, (ii) strong quantitative skills, and experience with statistical software (Stata, R, or similar programs), and (iii) excellent communication and writing skills in English. The contract duration is 4 years, and the candidate will be based at the Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, under the supervision of Professor Johan Mackenbach (Department of Public Health). Active collaboration is expected with other groups at Erasmus MC, including clinical departments, and with the Health Economic groups at the Erasmus School of Economics and the institute of Health Policy and Management, in particular Professors Eddy van Doorslaer and Tom van Ourti.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct is a condition for the appointment.

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.279,- in the 1st year and increases to € 2.919,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

A healthy population and excellence in healthcare through research and education. This is what Erasmus MC stands for. Conducting groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and leading the way. In research, education, and healthcare. We are practical people with a high level of expertise, working hard to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow.

The Department of Public Health is a large research-oriented department which has a multidisciplinary staff and a strong international reputation for research in the field of the determinants of population health. The appointed researcher will work in a multidisciplinary research group as part of a university-wide initiative aiming to improve the underpinnings of health policy.