PhD candidate in diagnostic test evaluation and research methodology

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.

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.

Each PhD trajectory aims to result in 3 to 5 peer-reviewed international publications. 

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.

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.

Previous experience with literature reviews, data analysis, qualitative research or scientific publishing is an advantage, but not essential.