Clinical Data Scientist – EEG & fNIRS

This position is only open to candidates who are currently residing in the Netherlands. Applications from candidates living outside the Netherlands will not be considered.

As a Clinical Data Scientist, you will develop and validate methods that combine electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for use in early-phase clinical trials. Building on CHDR’s extensive experience in EEG recording and analysis, you will explore how simultaneous EEG and fNIRS measurements can help characterize drug effects on brain function. You will develop multimodal measurement methods, design and conduct validation studies, and create signal processing and data analysis pipelines. This research is intended to lead to a PhD thesis. Alongside your main research project, you will be an active member of the Biomarker Engineering & Analytics department. You will contribute to sponsored analysis projects, help develop and validate other biomarker methods, and participate in the broader scientific and operational activities of the department. Your main responsibilities will be to: Design, implement, and validate a multimodal system for simultaneous acquisition of EEG and fNIRS data. Design and conduct studies to evaluate the performance and suitability of these methods for early-phase clinical trials. Develop and validate reproducible pipelines for processing and analysing EEG and fNIRS data. Provide scientific and technical expertise, and support the execution of clinical trials and departmental biomarker development projects. Disseminate research findings through scientific publications and conference presentations. What you bring to CHDR We are looking for an analytical and independent individual who enjoys solving complex problems and takes initiative in their work. You are flexible, adapt easily to changing priorities, and thrive in a dynamic environment. At the same time, you are a true team player who values collaboration and contributes positively to the team. As a fast learner, you quickly grasp new concepts, acquire new skills with ease, and are eager to continuously develop yourself. Additionally, you bring: MSc in a relevant technical discipline, such as biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science. Knowledge of and experience in biomedical signal processing. Knowledge of statistical and computational methods for data analysis, such as time-series analysis, statistical modelling, and machine learning. Strong programming and scripting skills in one or more relevant languages, such as Python, MATLAB, or R. Good communication skills and proficiency in spoken and written English. Experience with EEG and/or fNIRS is an advantage. This is how CHDR supports you At CHDR, you will receive a one-year contract for a minimum of 32 hours per week, with the possibility of a permanent position. You will work in a varied role within a professional and growing organisation, with plenty of opportunity to contribute your ideas. The main employment benefits (based on a 40-hour working week) include: A salary between €3,990, and €5,755, depending on your experience; A solid pension scheme through the ABP pension fund, 8% holiday allowance, and an end-of-year bonus ranging from a minimum of 3.8% up to a maximum of 12%, depending on the organisation’s results; 25 vacation days per year, plus one Diversity Day; Opportunities for personal development through training programmes and certifications; Our office is located in an excellent location: directly next to Leiden Central Station, making it easily accessible by public transport. Your travel expenses are reimbursed up to 100%, or you can choose to purchase a (electric) bicycle at a discount. CHDR also contributes to a pleasant working environment by organising Friday afternoon drinks, an annual Christmas dinner, and a team outing to the Ardennes, which further strengthens the connection between colleagues. In addition, CHDR provides free access to OpenUp, an online platform focused on mental health, resilience, and personal development, offering masterclasses, group sessions, and one-on-one coaching conversations. This service is also available to family members.

The Centre for Human Drug Research (CHDR) is a foundation located in the Leiden Bio Science Park. Since its establishment in 1987, CHDR has grown into an innovative institute specialising in clinical drug development. Each year, we conduct dozens of studies involving healthy volunteers and patients. We work closely with universities, university medical centres, major hospitals, and scientists from around the world. Together, we do this with a team of approximately 300 permanent colleagues. In addition, more than 100 students work with us each year to gain valuable experience and contribute to our research. Interested? Click the green “Apply” button and send us your CV and motivation letter. Our HR team will contact you as soon as possible. If your profile is a good match, you may be invited for two interviews. Finally, we may ask for up to two references to gain a complete understanding of your experience and qualities. If you have any questions about the position, please contact Robert-Jan Doll (Associate Director) at [email protected]. Applications are open until 18 October 2026. The vacancy may close earlier if we receive a sufficient number of suitable applications.