PhD scholarship: Health Technology Assessment of medical devices for low and middle income countries

Supervisor: Dr Leandro Pecchia

Start date: as soon as possible.

Project Overview: Health technologies are changing the model of care. In particular, medical devices are the main enablers of modern medicine. Several methods have been proposed to support political decisions regarding medical device in developed countries. Those methods are far from being perfect and are mainly the result of adaptation of methods, developed mainly for drugs, which fail to consider important dimensions that are relevant for medical devices. However, much less has been don for low and middle income countries. For instance, available economic evaluations of medical devices come predominantly from high income countries, and relevant methods and studies are urgently required in less resourced settings.

This research project will focus on development and validation of methods and tools for HTA of medical devices for low and middle income countries. After reviewing existing literature and methods (e.g. multicriteria decision analysis methods) for HTA of medical devices, few case studies will be identified, in collaboration with biomedical engineers working for the WHO or in LIMC (e.g. including Benin, Bosnia Herzegovina, South Africa, Mozambique). If interested, the candidate will have to email Dr Pecchia () and send a CV and a short motivational letter (why do you think you are a good candidate?).

The ideal candidate should have a degree in biomedical engineering, or other relevant field, and relevant professional or research experience in: medical devices design, assessment or management, possibly in LMIC; HTA for clinical evidence, reimbursement, pricing, public procurement or protocol definition; HTA methods, possibly for medical devices and/or LMIC. Being fluent in French would be also appreciated (although this is not a prerequisite), considering that many South-Saharan countries speech mainly French.

Eligibility: UK or EU candidates with a 1st or 2.1 UK Honours degree in biomedical engineering, or other relevant field. If you are not graduated in the UK, an Overseas Qualifications in UK Equivalent Scores can be found here: http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/study/international/admissions/entry-requirements/ Overseas applicants should have English language test certificate before enrolling, we accept IELTS, CAE, CPE and PTE.

How to apply: To apply for this post you must complete the online application form and quote scholarship reference LP16

As soon as you have a University ID number you will be invited to upload your degree certificate, transcripts, CV and a personal statement that explains your specific research interests and why you should be considered for this award. Application form: www.warwick.ac.uk/pgapply.

Funding: one studentship is available and covers 100% tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and standard stipend circa £14,254. Self-Funded PhD applications can be discussed too.