Utrecht University is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Position in Generative AI in Health Technology Assessment (HTA) within the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. This research project investigates how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) can enhance, support, and transform the evaluation and lifecycle of medicines.
Overview & Key Highlights
| Program / Position | PhD Candidate / Researcher |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Utrecht University (Faculty of Science) |
| Research Institute | Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS) |
| Research Area | Generative AI, Health Technology Assessment (HTA), Pharmacoepidemiology, Health Economics |
| Location | Utrecht, Netherlands |
| Employment Type | Full-time (Initial 18 months, extendable to 4 years) |
| Remuneration | €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month plus 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus |
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2026 |
Designation
PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher in Generative AI and Health Technology Assessment (HTA).
Research Area
The research is situated at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence, Pharmaceutical Policy, Health Economics, and Regulatory Science. The project is part of the Academic Research Network HTA—a strategic collaboration between Utrecht University, Erasmus University Rotterdam, and the National Health Care Institute (Zorginstituut Nederland – ZIN).
Location
Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht, Netherlands.
Scholarship / Job Description
Generative AI (GenAI) is rapidly emerging across healthcare and pharmaceutical evaluation, yet systematic evidence about its practical value and associated risks remains limited. In this PhD project, the successful candidate will map and evaluate the role of GenAI across the full HTA lifecycle of medicines—from horizon scanning to real-world evidence reassessment.
Key responsibilities and project dimensions include:
- Mapping current and future GenAI applications across international HTA bodies.
- Evaluating how GenAI tools can extract, harmonise, and analyse complex data from national and EU HTA dossiers.
- Developing frameworks and evaluated tools linking HTA methodological needs with advanced computational models.
- Assessing how pharmaceutical developers utilize GenAI for submissions and how evaluation bodies can review AI-supported evidence.
- Contributing to academic teaching in HTA modules for Bachelor and Master students.
Financial Benefits & Employment Terms
- Monthly Salary: Starts at €3,204 gross per month in the first year, progressing to €4,051 gross per month in the fourth year (Scale P, Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities – CAO NU).
- Allowances: 8% annual holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
- Contract Duration: 18-month initial appointment with extension to 4 years upon positive performance evaluation.
- Benefits: Comprehensive pension scheme, parental leave provisions, and access to university professional development programs.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Applicants should possess the following qualifications and profile:
- Academic Degree: An MSc degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Health Economics, Health Technology Assessment (HTA), Epidemiology, Data Science, or a related discipline.
- Methodological Skills: Strong enthusiasm and aptitude for learning and applying mixed quantitative and qualitative research methods.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (proficiency in Dutch is considered a distinct advantage for engaging with national stakeholders).
- Interdisciplinary Orientation: Proven interest in cross-disciplinary research spanning healthcare, policy, and computer science.
- Desired Experience: Prior experience with data analysis software (e.g., R, SAS, NVivo) or working with Large Language Models (LLMs) in health research is a strong plus.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the official Utrecht University vacancy portal. Prepare and submit the following documents:
- A comprehensive Motivation Letter outlining your interest and fit for the position.
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact details (names, email addresses, and phone numbers) of at least two academic or professional references.
For academic inquiries regarding the project, candidates may contact Dr. C. Leopold at c.leopold@uu.nl. For procedural questions, email science.recruitment@uu.nl.
Last Date for Application
The closing date for applications is 30 September 2026.
Application Link
Click Here to Apply Directly at Utrecht University
