The research group of Lonneke van de Poll aims to understand the long-term and late effects of cancer treatment on symptoms, quality of life and socio-economic impact.

Funded and in collaboration with the EORTC Quality of Life Group, we have developed a Survivorship Questionnaire (QLQ-SURV100). It measures the HRQOL of cancer survivors who have received curative treatment at least one year earlier and are disease-free (Phase III study of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life cancer survivorship core questionnaire - Pub Med (nih.gov). Recently, for the international validation of the questionnaire , we surveyed 1600 cancer survivors in 18 countries and collected detailed information on their disease, treatment, lifestyle and HRQOL. For this project we are looking for a Ph D student who will analyse the internationally collected data on HRQOL, rehabilitation, social issues, lifestyle, satisfaction with follow-up care and understanding of post-traumatic growth among survivors.

Scientific environment
Located in Amsterdam, the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) is an internationally renowned institute dedicated to fundamental, translational and clinical cancer research. It is the only comprehensive cancer center in The Netherlands, with the cancer-specialized Antoni van Leeuwenhoek (AVL) hospital under the same roof with the NKI. The NKI is a dynamic institute with a highly interactive and collaborative atmosphere and accommodating over 50 research groups and many excellent facilities. The van de Poll group is part of the Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology.

We are looking for an ambitious and enthusiastic Ph D student with a strong commitment to science and a Master's degree in biomedical or health sciences, public health, psychology, social sciences or a related field. We are particularly looking for someone who enjoys analysing data and has strong statistical analysis skills, and has experience with software such as R, STATA, SAS or SPSS. In addition, the candidate should have excellent written and oral communication skills in English and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international research team. Experience in cancer research or quality of life studies is an advantage but not a requirement.

We offer an opportunity to contribute to a significant European research initiative, collaboration with leading experts in the field of cancer survivorship, access to a rich international database of cancer survivors and a supportive research environment with opportunities for professional development.

We offer a stimulating and interactive research environment, free use of all state-of-the-art facilities, a competitive salary. The gross salary per month can range from € 3.523,- to € 4.277,- (salary Ph D scale, according to the Collective Labour Agreement General Hospitals), depending on your experience. In addition, you will receive 8,33% holiday pay and end-of-year bonus (8,33%). The appointment is for a period of four years. You will participate in the educational program of the Oncology Graduate School Amsterdam (OOA) that offers high-quality courses.

Your travel expenses will be reimbursed at € 0,19 per km. Free parking at the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek is also part of the package. Personnel is stimulated to use public transport and bicycle and therefore we offer an interesting arrangement for bikers and/or discount on the NS-business card.

How to apply
Applications should include your CV, a cover letter, your transcripts, and the contact details of at least two references. Ensure that your transcripts and reference information are attached together with your cover letter, as there is no option to submit them separately. To apply, click the 'Apply now' button at the bottom of the page.

For further information visit our website (Lonneke van de Poll Group | Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology | Netherlands Cancer Institute (nki.nl) or contact Lonneke van de Poll (l.vd.poll@nki.nl) or Kelly de Ligt (k.d.ligt@nki.nl).

First selection will take place on October 1, but interested candidates can respond until vacancy is filled.

The NKI values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment that stimulates the best in each individual. Applications of all individuals are welcomed regardless of age, ancestry, religion, disability, distance from the labor market, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Details

• Hours per week: 36
• Salary level: Ph D-scale