PhD candidate in Data Quality for RWE-studies

The Department of Data Science and Biostatistics at the University Medical Center Utrecht is looking for a PhD candidate to develop methodological evidence for observational studies using real world health data (Electronic Health Records). Data quality is critical in observational studies because it directly influences the accuracy, validity, and reliability of the findings. Several theoretical frameworks and tools to assess data quality are currently available. Nonetheless, evidence on how the data quality findings and different common data models and harmonization methods may influence study findings is still scarce. The project will dive into how we can connect data quality dimensions to data fit-for-purpose and impact on vaccines and medicines safety studies.  
In this position you will work together alongside medical researchers, scientific programmers, and statisticians on the design, conduct, and analysis of diverse research projects on medication safety. These projects use real-world data accessed via a federated manner using a common data model. You will actively contribute to implement studies, coordinate teams, support documentation, launch analysis scripts and disseminate research outputs in a dynamic, fast-paced, and multi-cultural work environment. 

The Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care is one of the 10 divisions within the UMC Utrecht. The Julius Center aims for a leading role in the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in the field of Health Sciences and Primary Care. Over the years, the Julius Center has distinguished itself through high quality scientific research and education. The department of Data Science and Biostatistics focuses its research and main projects on Data Science, Clinical trials methodology, Methodology for high dimensional (big) data and Real-World Evidence (RWE)/causal inference. RWE has an academic staff of 6 senior epidemiologists, 6 programmers and 5 statisticians and 10 PhD students. We work within a multicultural team and have several research collaborations across Europe.  

• A relevant MSc, for example, in (clinical-pharmaco) epidemiology, biostatistics, (applied) data sciences, biomedical or health sciences. 
• Demonstrate a keen interest in the methodology of medical research, have expertise in programming (e.g., in R). 
• Demonstrate fluency in written and spoken English 
• Thrive by working in a team environment and are excited about communicating your ideas with peers 

• A salary between €3.017 and €3.824 gross per month (salary scale OIO), based on full-time employment (36 hours). 
• Year-end bonus of 8.3% and holiday allowance of 8%. 
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 70% of the monthly contribution. 
• 100% public transport reimbursement. Are you coming on foot, by bike or by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. of 40 km one way). 
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally. 
• The option to work hybrid: at home and at the office.
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.