We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary team on an innovative project aimed at advancing prostate cancer detection through artificial intelligence (AI). The main purpose will be to develop and validate a semi-autonomous AI system for the interpretation of prostate MRI scans. The goal is to improve diagnostic accuracy, workflow efficiency, and patient outcomes in the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer, and to incorporate patient perspectives and education to ensure the ethical and successful implementation of AI in healthcare.

Tasks and Responsibilities
- Development and optimization of an AI algorithm for semi-autonomous prostate cancer detection on MRI.
- Conduct research on patient acceptance of semi-autonomous AI diagnostics.
- Conduct a multicenter prospective pilot study to assess the safety and workflow efficiency of the semi-autonomous AI system compared to standard radiologist interpretation.
- Integrate patient preferences and pilot study results with safety measures into groundwork for future multi-center RCT.
- Analyze data, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, and present results at international conferences.
- Mentor junior team members, and students and assist in teaching.
- Support ongoing local, national, and international collaboration with clinicians, and clinical centers.
- Help set up and maintain the learning healthcare system on GrandChallenge.org, which runs on AWS.

- MSc degree in Technical Medicine, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, Biomedical.
- Sciences or a related field.
- Can train and develop deep-learning AI algorithms.
- Clear understanding of MRI.
- Academic writing, good presentation, and communication skills.
- A broad interest in AI algorithm implementation.
- A collaborative spirit and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

We offer a challenging position in an enthusiastic team of experts in a broad (to explore) field. A four years fulltime contract (36 hours per week) as a PhD. Your salary will be a minimum of € 2.789,- gross per month in the first year and a maximum of € 3.536,- gross per month (scale PRO) in the final (4th) year, based on a full-time appointment. In addition, the UMCG will offer you 8% holiday pay, and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The conditions of employment comply with the Collective Labour Agreement for Medical Centres (CAO-UMC).

Information
For more information please contact the Principal Investigators by e-mail: Derya Yakar (d.yakar@umcg.nl), Thomas Kwee (t.c.kwee@umcg.nl), Henkjan Huisman (Henkjan.huisman@radboudumc.nl).

Diversity and Inclusion Statement
UMCG is an international organisation, embracing a diverse student and staff population. We strongly believe that diversity is our advantage and creating an inclusive working climate in which students and staff feel a valued member of the UMCG community is therefore a top priority. UMCG values diversity within its community, therefore we encourage all qualified applicants, including minorities, women, people with disabilities, and members of other groups underrepresented in academia to apply. In case this vacancy appeals to you, but you are doubting whether you might be the right person for this position, please do apply.

Radiologie

The place of employment for the appointment is UMCG Groningen. The UMCG is one of the largest hospitals in the Netherlands and the largest employer in the Northern Netherlands. In addition to providing clinical care, there is much focus on the core research, training, and education. It has well-established structural international research collaborations with academic partners. Research groups that are closely linked to this project and whom you will work within are fastMRI (UMCG), and DIAG (Radboudumc).

At least as important as a pleasant working environment is a pleasant living environment. Groningen is a thriving university city set in quiet, spacious surroundings.