Language Considerations in Clinical Trials: Systemic Change and the Value of Translation/Interpretation for Inclusion University of Aberdeen in United Kingdom

This PhD position at the University of Aberdeen is part of the EDICT (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Trials) Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN). The network comprises seven leading European institutions, industry partners, and clinical trial networks, aiming to transform the design, conduct, and reporting of clinical trials for greater inclusivity. As one of 16 Doctoral Candidates, you will work across four interconnected work packages: Measurement, Methodologies, Implementation, and Systemic Change.

The project focuses on the practical and systemic challenges of translation and interpretation in clinical trials. While translation of written materials is often seen as a way to increase inclusivity, evidence suggests that other factors, such as trust, may be more significant barriers for non-native speakers. The research aims to clarify how translation and interpretation can be effectively integrated into trial planning to support real inclusion.

You will undertake four studies: (1) Evidence synthesis through systematic or scoping reviews of current translation and interpretation practices in trials, including analysis of trial registries, protocols, and published results; (2) Qualitative research with trialists, patient partners, regulators, industry representatives, and under-represented community members to explore motivations and barriers for translation/interpretation, using behavioral frameworks like COM-B/TDF; (3) Method development to define decision criteria for language support, prioritizing languages based on stakeholder input and monitoring translated/interpreted materials; (4) Creation of practical tools and guidance for trialists, with user-testing in collaboration with CIRCLE (Uppsala) and PFMD (Belgium).

Secondments are planned with CIRCLE in Sweden (months 12–16) to discuss translation needs with ethnic minority individuals and leverage ongoing work in East Africa, and with PFMD in Belgium (months 22–26) to develop tools for patient engagement. Key outputs include peer-reviewed articles, conference presentations, and practical materials to guide trialists in inclusive trial design.

The position offers mixed-methods training, systematic review skills, consensus-building, and tool development experience. Funding is provided through the MSCA-DN programme, including a competitive salary (£43,639 per annum), mobility allowance (£454.40/month), and potential family allowance (€660/month gross). Additional MSCA allowances may apply. Candidates must demonstrate their right to work in the UK and may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route.

Applicants should have a relevant degree in medicine, medical sciences, public health, linguistics, or a related field. Experience with mixed-methods research, systematic reviews, and qualitative studies is desirable. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Magdalena Rzewuska Diaz at [email protected]. The application deadline is March 30, 2026. For application instructions, visit the provided link.