Belgium Job Openings

Sciensano

PhD student - Mapping and addressing the commercial drivers of tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy food consumption in Belgium

Anderlecht

September 2, 2024

Bedrijf
The Belgian Institute of Health (Sciensano) provides support for health policy through scientific research, expert opinions and divisional tasks. On the basis of scientific research, we formulate recommendations and solutions for a proactive health policy at the Belgian, European and international levels; assess the status of health (indicators) within a certified quality framework; and develop advanced solutions for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of current and emerging diseases.

Functiebeschrijving
You will join the Nutrition and Health Unit (part of the Health Information Service) at Sciensano to work on the following project funded by the Foundation Against Cancer: Mapping and addressing the commercial drivers of tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy food consumption in Belgium. You will write a Ph D thesis on this topic under the co-supervision of Sciensano and the Department of Agricultural Economics at Ghent University.
Project
The commercial determinants of health (CDo H) are defined as the “systems, practices, and pathways through which commercial actors drive health and equity.” These determinants are increasingly recognized as a powerful influence on the development and implementation of best practice policies to prevent noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). This project will, for the first time, map the diverse CDo H related to the main risk factors for cancer and other NCDs, namely tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy, ultra-processed food consumption in Belgium. In addition, concrete solutions for governments to effectively address these CDo H will be developed.
As a Ph D candidate employed by Sciensano, you will undertake the following tasks:

Map the diverse CDo H related to the main risk factors for cancer and other NCDs, namely tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy, ultra-processed food consumption in Belgium.
Organize Group Model Building workshops with government and non-government actors, as well as elite interviews with industry representatives, to systematically explore the CDo H in Belgium and identify concrete solutions.
Investigate the extent to which these industries target vulnerable groups or contribute to health-related inequalities.
Write a Ph D thesis on this topic.
Contribute to the dissemination of findings through scientific papers and policy briefs.

Profiel

Master's degree in a relevant field such as Public Health, Global Health, Public Policy, or another discipline that supports a multidisciplinary understanding of the structural determinants of chronic diseases.
Strong interest in policy and its impact on public health.
Graduated with at least honors (cum laude) or equivalent, meeting the requirement for commencing a Ph D.
Highly motivated to pursue and complete a Ph D.
Experience in qualitative research, including conducting interviews and focus groups.
Strong interest and social skills for working in an interdisciplinary context with stakeholders across Europe.

Assets

Experience in statistical analysis, preferably with proficiency in software such as R, SAS, or STATA.

Languages

Proficient in English.
Good knowledge of one or both of the national languages (Dutch or French) is recommended.

Generic Skills

Analytical mindset: Ability to analyze complex data and derive actionable insights.
Excellent communication abilities: Strong skills in both written and verbal communication.
Autonomy and project management abilities: Capable of working independently and managing a long-term research project effectively.
Collaborative spirit: Proven ability to work well within a team and collaborate across different disciplines.
Ability to work with diverse stakeholders: Experience in engaging with various groups, including governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Commitment to ethics: Adherence to high ethical standards in research and practice.

Wij bieden

An exciting and varied position in a well-known scientific institute
A 4-year fellowship contract ; starting on 01/10/2024
Flexible working hours for a good work-life balance
Remuneration as a fellow : 2350€ /month, increased to 2500€ /month after 2 years at Sciensano (Gross - the remuneration of a Ph D fellow is exempt from income tax)
100% reimbursement commuting by public transport, meal vouchers (EUR 6/day)
26 days leave per year + closure between Christmas and New Year
The workplace for the position is located in Anderlecht - Brussels
Access to internal and external training, to the sports club and various events
This offer is open to inclusiveness and all types of profiles

Contact
Send in your application quickly via our website https://www.sciensano.be before 25 september
Do you have any questions regarding this position or would like additional information?
Contact us at jobs@sciensano.be.

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