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PhD program

The aim of the PhD program at Department of Clinical Epidemiology is to train highly qualified candidates to become independent and leading researchers. It is envisioned that the program alumni will assume top-rank positions in the epidemiologic research community, in which they can impact public health and clinical practice. We welcome qualified PhD candidates whose interests fall within our research areas.

The PhD students at DCE acquire research skills through a combination of coursework, research projects, and mentoring. During their training, PhD students go through all steps of the research process: formulating study aims, writing study protocol, securing funding, collecting data and conducting analyses, interpreting results and scientific publication.

Our PhD students enjoy close mentoring and supervision by our highly qualified faculty with competences in epidemiology, biostatistics, and bedside medicine. We offer numerous opportunities for professional development through participation in journal clubs, presentations, contribution to other research activities, research stay abroad, and international collaboration. PhD students are encouraged to teach and supervise junior colleagues and research year students.

The coursework required for PhD students at DCE includes introduction to clinical epidemiology and preparation of a protocol and statistical analysis plan. In addition, we offer advanced courses in clinical epidemiology in relation to cancer, cardiovascular diseases, surgical procedures, kidney and urinary tract diseases, screening and diagnosis of diseases, personalized medicine, prognostic studies, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews and use of registries and databases for epidemiologic research.

In addition to the regular courses, we hold master classes and host a summer school in pharmacoepidemiology taught by international experts. The PhD program at DCE is offered through the Graduate School of Health at Aarhus University. PhD students at DCE are typically enrolled in the PhD program “Clinical Medicine, Forensic Medicine and Odontology” (ClinFO) with access to numerous additional courses offered by the graduate school.