PhD Position in Epidemiology/Digital Health: Wearable sensing in free-living environments to support differential diagnosis and prognosis of Obesity and Hypertension (SDC16) 80 %

About the University

The University of Zurich, renowned as Switzerland's largest university, provides a vibrant working environment supported by approximately 10,000 employees and offers diverse professional apprenticeship streams. With a focus on cutting-edge research and exceptional education, UZH invites talented individuals to contribute their expertise.

Your Responsibilities

This PhD project is a key component of Work Package 1 within the ENDOTRAIN network, focusing on the impact of endocrine rhythms in individuals with obesity and hypertension through continuous real-world data analysis. Responsibilities include:

• Establishing a data collection and monitoring infrastructure with open-source tools, supported by IT specialists.
• Planning and executing wearable sensing studies aligned with the goals of ENDOTRAIN, while aiding collaborators in similar study setups.
• Collecting contextual and patient-reported outcome data through structured surveys and free text responses.
• Developing and validating diagnostic and predictive algorithms utilizing classical statistics and machine learning techniques.

Your Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who meets the following criteria:

• A quantitative Master's degree (MSc or equivalent) in Statistics, Machine Learning, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• A strong interest in translational endocrinology and digital health technologies.
• A willingness to engage with various stakeholders, including patients and clinicians.
• Some familiarity with information and data management; knowledge of information storage systems or databases is advantageous.
• Exceptional programming or data science skills (R, Python) and a keen interest in wearable data analysis, including time series analysis and predictive machine learning methods.
• Fluency in written and spoken English; good communication skills in English and knowledge of German are beneficial.
• A capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for Swiss-based PhD positions and have a willingness to engage in training activities across Europe.

Contact Information

Dr. Marco Kaufmann
Coordinator of PhD program in Epidemiology and Biostatistics