PhD position developing and applying causal triangulation to answer epidemiologi

Many key questions in epidemiology are fundamentally causal. Yet, we often have to rely on assumptions that cannot be directly verified to judge whether an observed association truly reflects causality. Causal triangulation offers a valuable tool to strengthen causal inference by comparing results from different study designs addressing the same question.

As part of this project, you will:

• Collaborate with our team to deepen the understanding of how causal triangulation works.
• Help lay the groundwork for applying triangulation methods in practice (see DOI: 10.1007/s40471-023-00340-0).
• Apply triangulation to one or more concrete epidemiologic questions, such as the impact of cash transfers on child health — although we are open to other applications based on your interests.

You will also join a cohort of 8 PhD students across Erasmus MC, TU Delft, and Leiden University Medical Center, each focusing on different aspects of strengthening the safety and validity of causal inference in health research.

Some background in causal inference is a great advantage. There is room for learning on the job, but preference will be given to candidates who have taken courses or have demonstrated familiarity with at least the basics of causal inference:

• A Master’s degree in a quantitative research field (e.g., biostatistics, epidemiology, economics, or psychology).
• Strong ability to work collaboratively within a team, particularly within the Causal Inference Group and the Safe Causal Inference consortium.
• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) sufficient to conduct and communicate scientific research.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll be based at Erasmus MC and become part of the Causal Inference Group; a lively community of students and faculty who meet regularly to exchange ideas, tackle methodological puzzles and explore new directions in causal research. It’s an inspiring, collaborative setting where there’s room to learn, share and grow together.

Your primary supervisor will be Dr. Jeremy Labrecque (scientific researcher). You’ll also benefit from the expertise and guidance of Dr. Nan van Geloven at LUMC and Prof. Aad van der Vaart at TU Delft, who bring valuable perspectives and a strong network to your project. Together, this team offers a supportive environment to help you develop your skills and make an impact in the field.