The Healthy Adaptation to Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenthood (HAP3) project is a pioneering initiative funded by the European Commission (EC) through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA). Its core mission is to tackle the intergenerational transmission of obesity and mental health challenges that can affect families during pregnancy and early childhood. About the HAP3 Project HAP3 operates as a Joint Doctorate Training Network, offering high-level interdisciplinary training to 11 exceptional doctoral candidates. Each researcher will pursue a joint PhD degree from two European universities and contribute as a Perinatal Care Innovator. The programme aims to foster novel, evidence-based, and technical solutions to address the complex interactions between obesity, mental health, and early parenthood. The HAP3 consortium comprises five leading universities and 11 associated partners, including seven non-academic institutions. This structure allows doctoral candidates to engage with a diverse academic and professional community while benefiting from the combined expertise, resources, and infrastructure of multiple organizations across Europe. Project Focus: DC1 – Predictive Models for Early Childhood Obesity The doctoral position known as DC1 will focus on developing predictive models for early childhood obesity that can inform national health authorities. The research has two main objectives: To identify and analyze risk and predictive factors for childhood obesity using multi-country register and cohort data. To validate predictive models that can support evidence-based interventions for prevention. The project will primarily use data from existing large-scale registers and longitudinal cohorts across multiple countries. The successful candidate will be enrolled jointly at KU Leuven (Belgium), where the main supervision team is based, and Aarhus University (Denmark), as the second institution. Key Responsibilities The selected doctoral candidate will: Harmonize and analyze register and longitudinal datasets to identify modifiable risk factors for obesity. Conduct cross-national comparisons between Belgium and Denmark. Apply traditional prediction models alongside machine learning techniques for obesity risk forecasting. Collaborate with other HAP3 doctoral candidates (DC2 and DC3) to integrate data from multiple sources. Produce a doctoral thesis aligned with the project objectives. Actively participate in workshops, seminars, and training activities within the HAP3 network. Publish findings in reputable academic journals and present research at international conferences. Benefits and Employment Conditions Selected candidates will receive a competitive salary in line with the MSCA-JD regulations for Doctoral Researchers. The compensation package includes: A living allowance, A mobility allowance, and A family allowance (where applicable). The final salary will depend on local tax laws, social security contributions, and the EU’s cost-of-living adjustment factor. The initial appointment is for one year, with an extension to four years total upon satisfactory performance. The expected start date is March 1, 2026. Eligibility Criteria Applicants from all nationalities and backgrounds are welcome, provided they meet the following conditions: Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Epidemiology, Medicine, Psychology, Midwifery, Public Health, or Social Sciences. Must not already hold a PhD or have successfully defended one. Must not have resided or worked in Belgium for more than 12 months within the past three years (mobility rule). Must meet local enrollment requirements for both KU Leuven and Aarhus University. Demonstrate proficiency in English (minimum B2 level or equivalent). Additional Project-Specific Requirements Strong foundation in statistical and epidemiological methods, ideally with experience handling longitudinal data. Proficiency in statistical software such as R or SPSS. Excellent analytical, writing, and presentation skills. A proactive, flexible, and collaborative work ethic. Willingness to learn Dutch is considered an asset. Application Process Applications must be submitted via email to info@hap3.eu by 31 October 2025. Required documents include: A copy of ID or passport (prepared securely using the KopieID app). Certified copies of academic qualifications (and translations if not in English). Master’s degree transcripts. Proof of English proficiency. An updated academic CV. A motivation letter indicating the specific DC(s) applied for and ranked by preference. Names and contact details of two academic referees. Applicants may apply for multiple doctoral positions but must clearly indicate their preferences in both the subject line and motivation letter. Selection Process The initial selection phase involves eligibility screening and evaluation of academic merit. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview. Final selection will be based on qualifications, experience, and alignment with the project’s goals. Contact Information For academic inquiries, contact Prof. Dr. Annick Bogaerts at annick.bogaerts@kuleuven.be.For application or technical questions, contact Dr. Alice Cavolo at info@hap3.eu. Data Privacy Notice Applicants’ personal data will be processed in compliance with EU data protection regulations to ensure fairness and transparency. Individuals may exercise their rights regarding access, correction, erasure, or data portability. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.