3-year PhD position: Clinical trial emulation for underrepresented groups
Well-conducted clinical trials can provide a high level of evidence, yet their narrow eligibility criteria and controlled settings often limit generalizability. Advances in causal inference and the increasing availability of real-world data allow researchers to explore alternative approaches. Target trial emulation is a structured framework to design observational studies that mimic randomized controlled trials, while reducing methodological pitfalls and sources of bias. This method may generate reliable evidence for underrepresented populations (e.g., older adults, people with multimorbidity, pregnant women).
The project is embedded in EDICT (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Trials), a Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network that brings together leading academic, industry, and clinical trial partners across Europe to advance equity-informed trial design. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those from groups historically underrepresented in clinical research.
Overarching research question
How are EDI-relevant patient characteristics currently measured in clinical trials, and how can these measurements be strengthened to support the study of treatment effect moderators and treatment engagement in underserved populations?
Overarching objective:
This PhD project will examine the feasibility of generating evidence from target trial emulation in underrepresented populations and develop a framework to guide evidence generation in these populations.
The planned research outputs are expected to include the following (subject to refinement as the project evolves):
- Assess the feasibility of target trial emulation in under-represented populations using selected data sources
- Identify barriers and possible solutions for conducting target trial emulations through consultations with experts
- Develop a framework to guide the generation of evidence from target trial emulation for underrepresented populations through a literature review and iterative discussions with experts
Candidates will be expected to participate in structured doctoral and network-wide training within the EDICT programme (minimum 25 ECTS at the host institution plus 10 ECTS network modules), including training in EDI in clinical trials, stakeholder engagement, research translation, research integrity, grant writing, and leadership.
Candidates will complete two secondment placements (typically 3 months each) in leading research institutions and/or non‑academic partners (e.g., industry, clinical trial networks, patient engagement or policy organisations).
Profile required :
We are looking for a candidate who meets the following essential criteria:
- A Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in epidemiology, public health, biostatistics, or a closely related field that allows enrolment in a doctoral programme at the host institution.
- Demonstrated research potential, analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in an international environment.
- Fluency in English (written and spoken).
The following qualifications would be considered an asset:
- A strong interest in equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in clinical research and in the methodology of target trial emulation.
Compliance with the MSCA mobility rule: candidates must not have lived or worked in France for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment (excluding holidays and compulsory national service).
Supervision
The doctoral candidate will be supervised by Prof. Isabelle Boutron and Dr. Sally Yaacoub at CRESS – METHODS, with regular meetings and close guidance on study design, analysis, and publication.
The candidate will be integrated into an intellectually vibrant and international unit in clinical epidemiology, with opportunities to present their work in team seminars and receive feedback from senior and junior researchers.
Team : CRESS U1153 – Team METHODS
Location : Paris, France
Starting date: September 2026
Duration of employment: 36 months
Condition of employment :
- PhD – MSCA Doctoral Network (36 months)
- Full time under MSCA rules (paid leave, social benefits, mobility/family allowances).
Salary : Gross salary of €4,735, plus a mobility allowance of €710 per month (gross). Estimated net salary after French social security contributions is approximately €3,038 per month (before income tax). This is complemented by partial reimbursement of transportation costs and, where applicable, a family allowance of €660 per month (gross).
Deadline : 30 March 2026
Team contact and application details:
Additional information on this PhD position and the application and selection process can be found here: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/416844
Applications must be submitted via the EDICT Doctoral Candidate Application Form – Fill in form by 30 March 2026 (23:59 GMT). Candidates may apply to up to five EDICT projects in order of preference.
Konw more : https://edictproject.eu
