PhD candidate in diagnostic test evaluation and research methodology
About the project
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Diagnostic test accuracy studies evaluate how well medical tests identify disease. These studies estimate measures such as sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. Although diagnostic methodology has advanced considerably, important methodological challenges remain unresolved.
Within the Biomarker and Test Evaluation (BiTE) group, we are offering two PhD positions focused on improving the methodology, quality and integrity of diagnostic accuracy research. Both projects combine quantitative and qualitative methods and contribute to more reliable medical research and healthcare decision\-making.
Position A: This project focuses on evaluating diagnostic tests when the reference standard itself is uncertain, heterogeneous or imperfect. You develop and apply methodological and statistical approaches to address bias and variability in comparative diagnostic accuracy studies using existing cohort data. Methods include misclassification\-adjusted analyses, Bayesian correction and latent class analysis. You also contribute to reporting standards and practical guidance for clinical research.
Position B: This project investigates how financial and non\-financial conflicts of interest influence diagnostic accuracy studies and selective publication of results. You combine quantitative meta\-research with qualitative interviews involving researchers, sponsors and journal editors to study mechanisms of bias and strategies for prevention.
Both PhD candidates work closely together on methodological projects, including updates of reporting guidelines. The projects offer strong opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, open\-science initiatives and international networking.
*Would you like to know more about the different phases within the PhD trajectory? You can read more about this on* *this page**.*
About the role
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As a PhD candidate, you take an active role in designing and conducting methodological research projects within your PhD trajectory.
Your work includes:
- collecting and analysing quantitative and qualitative research data;
- conducting methodological studies, evidence syntheses and systematic reviews;
- preparing scientific manuscripts, reports and conference presentations;
- collaborating with researchers on reporting guidelines and diagnostic research methodology;
- participating in training programmes and workshops offered by the Amsterdam UMC doctoral school.
The projects focus on a broad range of medical tests, including biomarkers, imaging tests, questionnaires, and other diagnostic tools. Research may involve different disease areas, although both projects build on previous work in liver disease. There is ample opportunity to incorporate your own interests, for example in specific test types, methodological approaches, or disease domains.
Profile
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You are an analytical and motivated researcher with an interest in improving the quality and integrity of medical research.
You also have:
- a master’s degree in Medicine, Epidemiology, Biomedical Sciences, (Bio)statistics or a related field;
- experience with statistical analyses and software such as R;
- strong communication skills and enjoyment of interdisciplinary collaboration;
- an independent, proactive and creative working style;
- excellent spoken and written English skills. Dutch language skills are an advantage but not required.
Our offer
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- You will be employed by Amsterdam UMC Research BV.
- A contract for 12 months, with the intention to extend for a total of 4 years. The Guideline PhD contract applies to this vacancy.
- Classification in salary scale OIO: € 3\.108 to € 3\.939 gross or if you hold a Master’s degree in Medicine, you will be appointed in salary scale 10: € 3\.598 to € 5\.669 gross per month for full\-time employment (depending on experience). In addition to a good basic salary, we offer 8\.3% end\-of\-year bonus. Calculate your net salary here. As of 1 July 2026, the salary will be increased by 3\.5% in accordance with the collective labor agreement (CAO UMC).
- Holiday hours: 194\.4 per year for full time and a possibility to save additional hours.
- 100% reimbursement for public transport travel costs. If you travel by foot, bicycle, or car, a mileage allowance of €0\.21 per km applies (up to a maximum of 40 km one way by car).
- Do you prefer walking or cycling? Take advantage of our good bike scheme.
- Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, comprehensible and fairly priced pension.
About the workplace
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You work within the Biomarker and Test Evaluation (BiTE) group, part of the section Clinical Epidemiology in the department of Epidemiology and Data Science at Amsterdam UMC. The group focuses on all phases of medical test evaluation, from analytical validity to clinical utility.
The BiTE group combines methodological innovation with applied research, evidence syntheses and guideline development. Researchers in the group have contributed to internationally recognised initiatives such as STARD and QUADAS, aimed at improving the quality and reporting of diagnostic research.
You join an interdisciplinary and collaborative team with expertise in epidemiology, diagnostic methodology and research integrity. The projects are supervised by prof. dr. Mariska Leeflang, dr. Bada Yang and dr. Yasaman Vali.
Amsterdam UMC Research BV
Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non\-profit scientific research. In doing so, we provide researchers with everything they need to excel. Our principal investigators (PIs) and project leaders offer support in the field of project management, finance and human resources. In medical scientific research projects, legal support is also provided.
Watch the video to find out more.
Let's meet
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During the publication period, applications will be handled continuously. If the vacancy is filled, it will be closed prematurely.
The first round of interviews is scheduled for June. We ask you to keep this in mind. The second round of interviews will, in principle, follow at the beginning of July. These will be held preferably in person.
Do you have any questions? For substantive information regarding this vacancy, please contact dr. Bada Yang, at b.d.yang@outlook.com or dr. Yasaman Vali, at y.vali@amsterdamumc.nl.
For more information about the application procedure, please contact Chey Edwards, recruitment advisor, at c.i.edwards@amsterdamumc.nl.
A reference check, screening and hiring assessment may be part of the procedure. Read here whether that applies to you. If you join us, we ask you for a VOG (Certificate of Good Conduct).
Internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates in case of equal suitability.
Acquisition in response to this vacancy will not be considered.
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