Depression is a common psychiatric disorder in adolescence, while relatively rare during childhood. The primary aim of this PhD project is to better understand the neurobiology of adolescent depression. The project will be embedded in the population-based Generation R Study, which collects data from fetal life forward. 5,200 children have undergone an MRI assessment, and over 2,500 have been scanned multiple times. The student will learn to apply machine-learning algorithms to neuroimaging data with the goal of identifying complex patterns in brain structure and function. Such patterns can subsequently complement traditional diagnostic classifications through disorder subtyping. This project is led by Professor Henning Tiemeier (promoter), who holds joint appointments at Erasmus MC University Medical Center and Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts.

The candidate will be required to collect data, conduct analyses, present work at internal meetings, and to publish findings in international scientific journals. A Master degree in Epidemiology at the NIHES in Rotterdam is part of the training.

Applicants should have a Master of Science degree with a background in Medicine, Psychology, Neuroscience, Statistics, Engineering or Health Sciences. It is important that the applicant is able to work well both independently and within a team, and has a good command of English. Knowledge of analytic methods and techniques (statistical, epidemiological) and/or previous neuroimaging research is a strength. Though a technical background is not required, the candidate must possess strong interest in learning to program with the R and/or Python language. The motivated candidate should also be highly organized and have a keen attention to detail.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct, a valid proof of identity, diploma's and/ or relevant registration such as BIG/RGS are conditions for the appointment.

The gross monthly salary amounts a minimum of € 2.422,- ( scale OIO) and a maximum of € 4.481,- (scale 10), depending on your level of education and relevant experience and based on a full-time working week of 36 hours.The terms of employment are in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement for University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

Erasmus MC stands for a healthy population and excellence in healthcare. By conducting groundbreaking work, we aim to push boundaries through leading the way in research, education and healthcare. We have access to the latest equipment and techniques in a state-of-the-art environment.

The candidate works with a large team of colleagues analyzing child behavior, genetic, and brain imaging data. In addition to Professor Tiemeier, the team consists of Dr. Tonya White and Dr. Ryan Muetzel at the Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, as well as Dr. Katie McLaughlin, at Harvard University. Given this project is part of a collaboration between Erasmus MC and Harvard, the candidate will be expected to travel for several months to Boston during the 3rd and 4th years of the PhD project.