In neuroscience, the concept of 'reserve' suggests that early in life a cognitive and brain reserve, measured with cognitive tests and MRIs of the brain, is built up and that this reserve can buffer the effects of neuropathology later in life. As such, persons who have built up a larger reserve can better withstand the adverse effects of accumulating brain pathology. Although the effects of reserve are typically seen later in life, the reserve itself is built up early in life. In this project the PhD student will investigate the role of genetic and environmental factors on the development of cognitive and brain reserve in childhood, and work towards identifying new indicators of brain and cognitive reserve. There will be a specific focus on early life stressors (pre- and post-natal), epigenetics and sleep. The project will be executed within Generation R, a unique Rotterdam-based birth cohort that started in 1999, and currently the largest neuroimaging birth-cohort in the world.

The PhD student will use biological, psychosocial and neuro-imaging data from Generation R for the research project. This includes longitudinal data from pregnancy up to 16 years of age, collected during home-visits, research visits at the Generation R research centre and the follow-up of health records.

The PhD student will participate in the Generation R data collection, analyse data and write peer-reviewed international publications which will result in a PhD thesis. In addition, the PhD student will participate in research meetings, supervisory meeting and collaborations with national and international research groups. During the PhD the student will take a MSc course in Epidemiology at the Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences.

We are looking for a candidate with a MSc degree in medicine, biomedical sciences, psychology, neurosciences or a related discipline. You have affinity with scientific questions around the structure and function of the brain and psychopathology. You have a analytical mind set and experience in quantitative research. You are able to work well in a team and alone. You have excellent writing and presenting skills. Proficiency in both Dutch and English is a requirement because of the data collection.

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.

A 1-year full-time contract will be offered at first, a 2,5 year extension will be offered on proven ability. The gross monthly salary amounts a maximum of € 4.361,- (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 PhD student will be employed at the Department of Epidemiology and will have an honorary contract with the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology. The project is a collaboration between the Psychiatric Epidemiology research group, which studies the aetiology and effects of common psychiatric diseases such as depression, anxiety and sleep disturbance, and the Generation R Behaviour and Cognition group, which examines how environmental and biological factors shape cognitive development and the emergence of psychiatric symptoms in children.