Vascular disease is an important risk factor for dementia, often contributing in conjunction with Alzheimer pathology (like amyloid and tau) to the clinical phenotype of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Yet, the exact role of vascular disease in brain health and the development of clinical AD, and its interaction with typical AD pathology, remains largely unknown. The current research project will provide insight into the role of arteriosclerosis - a hallmark of vascular disease - in AD, with a particular focus on the intracranial vasculature and the earliest form of disease, by using an innovative, population imaging-based approach.

The PhD-candidate will be working in the dynamic environment of the population-based Rotterdam Study, and will be involved in data-collection related to cognitive functioning and dementia and processing of CT-, and PET-imaging of the brain. The candidate will analyze the collected data in light of the specific research questions, and disseminate the findings through scientific articles and conference presentations. As part of the PhD-trajectory, the candidate will enter an Master of Science Programme in Health Sciences at the Netherlands Institute of Health Sciences (NIHES).

• We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a master's degree in Technical Medicine, Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, or related disciplines.
• Affinity with quantitative research and with Epidemiology is requested.
• Experience with any of the following major topics of the research would be a strength: vascular imaging (e.g., CT); PET-imaging; dementia.
• A strong command of English is required; knowledge of Dutch is useful but not mandatory.

We offer a temporary position up to a period of 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.570,- in the first year and increases to € 3. 271 in the fourth year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement for 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 candidate will be a appointed at the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, but will, within this multi-disciplinary project, be working closely together with researchers from the Department of Epidemiology.