PhD Position: Clinical Trial Emulation for Underrepresented Groups (EDICT Doctoral Network)

This PhD position is part of the Horizon Europe EDICT Doctoral Network, hosted at the Center for Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), University Paris Cité. The project focuses on clinical trial emulation for underrepresented groups, leveraging advances in causal inference and real-world data to improve the generalizability of clinical research. Target trial emulation is a structured framework for designing observational studies that mimic randomized controlled trials, aiming to generate reliable evidence for populations often excluded from traditional trials, such as older adults, people with multimorbidity, and pregnant women. The doctoral candidate will benefit from two secondment placements: one at the University of Galway (HRB-Trials Methodology Research Network and School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences) to gain advanced statistical expertise, and another at UMC Utrecht (Department of Epidemiology & Global Health) to collaborate with experts in multivariable modelling and interaction analyses. These experiences will enhance the candidate’s skills in target trial emulation and real-world data analysis. The position offers a 36-month full-time doctoral contract, with highly competitive salaries and working conditions under the MSCA-DN programme. Benefits include a gross salary of €4,735/month (estimated net salary €3,038/month after French social security contributions), a mobility allowance of €710/month, and a family allowance of €660/month for eligible candidates. Partial reimbursement of transportation costs and additional MSCA allowances (such as long-term leave and special needs) are available. Project-related costs, including research activities, training, network events, and secondments, are funded through institutional contributions. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in epidemiology, public health, biostatistics, or a closely related field, and must be eligible for enrolment in a doctoral programme at University Paris Cité. Demonstrated research potential, analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in an international environment are required. Fluency in English (written and spoken) is essential. Candidates must not already hold a doctoral degree and must not have resided or carried out their main activity in France for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before recruitment. A strong interest in equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in clinical research and in the methodology of target trial emulation is expected. Positions are open to candidates of any nationality. The selection process is open, transparent, merit-based, and equitable, in line with the European Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a structured interview in May 2026, and a mandatory interview with the doctoral school will be held with the successful candidate to validate supervisor selection. Applicants will receive status updates throughout the process and feedback on their application. EDICT is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the research community, strongly encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds, especially those from groups historically underrepresented in clinical research. The anticipated start date for the position is September 2026. For further details and to apply, visit https://edictproject.eu/ .