PhD Position in Biostatistics: Causal Inference for Vaccine and Pharmaceutical Effects University of Oslo in Norway

The University of Oslo invites applications for a 4-year PhD position in Biostatistics, focusing on causal inference for the effects of vaccines and other pharmaceuticals. This opportunity is based at the Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Department of Biostatistics, one of Europe's leading biostatistics groups with approximately 75 researchers. OCBE is internationally recognized for its expertise in causal inference, time-to-event analysis, clinical trials, epidemiology, high-dimensional statistics, infectious disease modeling, and machine learning.

The successful candidate will join the UiO:Life Science convergence environment, specifically the 'UiO:Real-World Evidence' initiative, which leverages Norwegian health data to rapidly generate real-world evidence on pharmaceutical effectiveness and safety. The project involves methodological research on defining, identifying, and estimating causal effects from observational data, with a strong emphasis on analyzing complex event history data, competing risks, individual heterogeneity, and the use of machine learning methods. Real-world studies will utilize linked data from national health registries and data simulations based on infectious disease models.

The position is full-time for four years, including 25% dedicated to career-promoting activities such as teaching and advising within UiO:Life Science and OCBE. The candidate will collaborate with partners at OCBE, the Department of Pharmacy, Oslo University Hospital, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, and others. The workplace is located at Domus Medica, with access to the Life Sciences Building and the UiO Real World Evidence convergence environment.

The PhD fellow must enroll in the Faculty of Medicine’s approved PhD program and is expected to complete the project within the fellowship period. The program is research-intensive, and the thesis will comprise high-quality scientific papers published in peer-reviewed journals. The candidate will also be a member of the National Research School in Epidemiology (EPINOR).

Applicants should hold a master’s degree or equivalent in statistics, data science, or a related field, with documented statistical knowledge and an average grade of B or above. A strong background in methodological statistics is preferred. Interest in applied medical science, especially vaccine studies, is essential. Programming skills in R, Python, or similar are required, and experience with large datasets or registry data is advantageous. Fluency in English is mandatory. Candidates may apply before completing their master’s degree but must provide proof upon appointment.

The position offers a competitive salary (NOK 550,800–600,000 per annum), attractive welfare benefits, and a generous pension agreement. The University of Oslo provides a friendly, ambitious, and international working environment, with opportunities for national and international collaboration. The application deadline is 4th February 2026, and the starting date should be no later than 1st October 2026.

To apply, submit your application via the electronic recruiting system, including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and references. All documents must be in English or a Scandinavian language. For further information, contact Professor Jon Michael Gran at [email protected].