Background and Challenge
In healthcare, numerous "multi-disease tests" are quickly appearing. They aim to identify multiple diseases using one blood sample or medical image. These tests can find diseases early, before symptoms develop. However, they often produce false positives, indicating disease when none is present. Although methods exist to balance early diagnosis benefits and false positive risks for single disease tests, such methods are not available for multi-disease tests.
In the MERIT project, we will develop new quantitative appraisal methods for multi-disease tests. See link. These methods will guide policymakers and physicians in making informed choices about acquiring and applying these novel tests. Through this research, you will contribute to the healthcare of the future and positively affect the lives of thousands!
Job description
We seek two highly motivated PhD candidates for this project, one at the University of Twente and one at the Amsterdam UMC. This vacancy is for the position at the University of Twente, within the innovative Health Technology and Services Research (HTSR) section at the Faculty of Behavioural Management and Social Sciences. This section includes about 35 researchers and focuses on personal and professional growth. There is also ample opportunity for social interaction. In this project, you will work with partners at Amsterdam UMC and Radboudumc. You will start by building on existing methods for evaluating single tests. Then, you will create a framework for health and economic evaluation of multi-disease tests, and test this using AI applications in radiology as a practical case study.
Information and application
Please submit your application using the “Apply now” button, and include:
- A cover letter of at most 1 page A4, explaining your motivation for the application, and why you qualify for this project;
- A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades acquired, and, if applicable, an overview of publications, as well as up to three references;
- Applicants holding qualifications from outside the Netherlands and lacking secondary or higher education in English must provide an IELTS score of at least 6.5, an internet TOEFL (TOEFL-iBT) score of 90 or more, or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE) certificate.
This vacancy will remain open until July 5, 2026, at the latest. Upon receiving applications, potentially suitable candidates will be invited for an interview, and the vacancy will be closed as soon as a candidate has been found.
Additional information about this position can be acquired via email from Prof.Dr. Erik Koffijberg (h.koffijberg@utwente.nl, from April 28th onwards) or from Prof.Dr. Mariska Leeflang (m.m.leeflang@amsterdamumc.nl).
About the department
At HTSR, interdisciplinary expertise is brought together to aid decision-making on health innovation development, evaluation, optimization, and implementation. Research concentrates on quantitative analyses that underpin strategies to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of healthcare systems. The HTSR section forms part of the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences BMS and the Technical Medical Center TechMed, a leading innovation hub of the University of Twente.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our University. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process. Please contact us to request accommodation.
About the organisation
At the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), we unite the worlds of people and technology to address today’s complex societal challenges. We are passionate about understanding human behaviour, fostering responsible innovation, and designing solutions that create societal value. Our educational programmes span disciplines such as Psychology, Business Administration, Public Administration, Communication Sciences, Philosophy, Educational Sciences, and Health Sciences. Through our bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Professional Learning & Development programmes, and interdisciplinary research themes – including Emerging Technologies & Societal Transformations, Resilience, Smart Industry, Learning, and Health – we empower students and researchers to make a positive societal impact.
At BMS, we combine critical thinking with practical action. From advancing sustainable mobility with innovations like the world’s most efficient hydrogen car to shaping policies that promote digital inclusion, our work contributes to a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable future. Whether it’s exploring how technology influences human behaviour or leveraging data and innovation to transform industries and communities, we ensure that technology serves people – and not the other way around.
As an employer, BMS offers a vibrant, inclusive, and entrepreneurial environment where you can thrive personally and professionally. Join us and become part of a forward-thinking community that equips you to shape the future – for yourself and society. With us, you will become part of a leading technical university with increasing, positive social impact.
Want to know more?
