Postdoc Position in Integrated HTA for Sustainability & Workforce Challenges
We are seeking an ambitious Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong quantitative background to tackle major challenges in Health Technology Assessment (HTA), including healthcare labour shortages and sustainable decision-making—apply now to make an impact.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong quantitative background to work across two strategically connected research projects, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in contemporary Health Technology Assessment (HTA): labour scarcity in healthcare and sustainable healthcare decision-making.
Project 1: Sustainable Cardiac Care – A Forward-Looking HTA Framework
This project develops an integrated, future-oriented HTA framework to evaluate the sustainability of two clinically equivalent procedures for low-complexity multi-vessel coronary artery disease: coronary artery bypass grafting and percutaneous coronary intervention.
The project combines Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), Discrete-Event Simulation (DES), and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate clinical, economic, environmental, organizational, and patient-centred outcomes across full patient journeys. Results will inform national decision-making and provide a transferable framework for broader healthcare applications.
Project 2: Better cost estimates for scarce human resources in HTA using the production possibilities frontier
The shortage of qualified personnel already is an issue in Dutch healthcare, and this will only increase in the future. Hence, healthcare innovations need to be evaluated for their impact on use of scarce human resources. In principle, existing methods for cost-effectiveness analysis can do this, but the incorporated costs do not reflect labour scarcity due to labour market failures. In this project, we investigate methods for better estimation of labour costs, reflecting scarcity, by further developing methods from data envelopment analysis. We aim to develop a new method that can be applied in economic evaluations to enhance more efficient use of scarce resources, leading to lower waiting times and/or better care. We will apply the new methodology to two case studies, in mental health and pharmacy care.
Information and application
Does this sound appealing? Please apply before May 17 and include:
- A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), explaining your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position;
- A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and an overview of publications.
Additional information can be acquired via email to Dr.ir. Shiva Faeghinezhad (s.faeghinezhad@utwente.nl) or Dr.ir Anoukh van Giessen (a.vangiessen@utwente.nl).
The first and second interview rounds will take place in the second and third weeks of May, respectively, with the second round possibly held in person.
About the department
At HTSR multidisciplinary expertise is combined to support decisions on health innovation development, evaluation, optimization, and implementation. Research focuses on quantitative analyses supporting strategies to improve the efficiency and sustainability of healthcare systems. The HTSR section is 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.
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