You will independently perform research as part of a international research group of physicians, statisticians and epidemiologists. You will extend the existing simulation model for cervical cancer screening and vaccination and will perform various projects assessing the harms, benefits and cost-effectiveness of cervical cancer prevention. The results will be published in international journals.

Cervical cancer is an important health problem in Europe and worldwide. There are several intervention strategies available to prevent cervical cancer death, such as HPV vaccination and early detection (screening). We use simulation modelling to evaluate existing vaccination and screening programs and gain an understanding of the development of cancer and how this development is affected by the interventions. The models are used to predict the cost-effectiveness of vaccination and screening programs and to explain observed trends in cancer incidence and mortality. We model cervical cancer screening and vaccination, to asses the effect of these interventions in several countries (mainly the Netherlands and the US). In many cases, our research directly leads to policy recommendations.

We offer the opportunity for candidates to deepen their affinity with quantitative research and acquire further experience in advanced data analysis, modelling, and writing of scientific papers. The position is offered to MSc graduates in Econometrics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Theoretical Biology, Theoretical Psychology, Physics, Biomedical Engineering, Bio-informatics, or a related field. Key skills that the candidate will be developing and working with are quantitative analysis, programming, working in a team and scientific communitcation (oral and written). The department further highly supports the candidates who want to further develop their skills in acquisition, multidisciplinary collaboration, leadership, goal-oriented working, creativity, initiative, engagement, vision, and visibility.

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.

We offer a 4-year full-time position of 36 hours per week in an exciting working environment that is aiming at improving public health. The candidate can take part in courses offered by the Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences (NIHES)

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.357 ,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.020,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch 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.

At the Department of Public Health, we are dedicated to improve population health at local, national, and international level through excellent research and education. Our research is characterised as highly multidisciplinary and is focused on the development and use of innovative methods. Collaboration with and direct impact on practice and policy are at the heart of our work.

The evaluation of screening research line aims to quantify the effects of screening for a wide range of diseases to help individuals, clinicians and policymakers make an informed choice about the potential/most optimal implementation of screening (and non-screening) participation. Guiding public health policies on screening using predictions of favourable and unfavourable effects and the cost of screening, based on micro-simulation modelling (MISCAN) is a major area of research.