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The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20 000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6 000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape.
The Center for Oncological Research in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Experimental Oncology.
Position
- You will actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of Experimental Oncology, with a focus on therapy resistance, innovative targeted combination strategies in head and neck cancer.
- You will draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisor(s) and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.
- You will conduct the research efficiently and to an appropriate standard, possibly abroad, and compete for funding for general or specific costs.
- You will report progress to your supervisor(s) and committees, and present your research at scientific conferences.
- You will publish scientific articles related to the research project.
- You will defend your thesis publicly and aim for publication in the scientific press.
- You will make a supporting, scientific contribution to existing research projects or lines of research within beyond your own doctoral research.
- You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks for the Center for Oncological Research in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Within the Center for Oncology Research, you will play a limited role in the provision of both scientific services and service to the society, including through support and participation in science communication activities.
Profile
- You hold a master degree in (Bio)medical sciences, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Bioscience Engineering, Pharmaceutical sciences or a related field or you will have obtained it by the time of appointment.
- You can provide evidence of excellent study results.
- You are eligible for an appointment as a doctoral fellow.
- You successfully acquired a FELASA B or C certificate or you are willing to acquire this.
- You have a good knowledge of cell biology, molecular oncology, signal transduction, and immunology.
- You have experience with or an interest in 3D-cell culture models, patient-derived organoids, cytotoxicity assays, flow cytometry, molecular work and laboratory animal experiments.
- Good and demonstrable experience in the analysis of biological datasets with informatics techniques is an asset.
- Experience with R, Python or other data analysis tools is an asset.
- You are enthusiastic about conducting both fundamental and translational research within a multidisciplinary team.
- Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
- Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
- You work accurately, quality-oriented, with integrity and a critical mindset, and you combine an independent working attitude with a strong team spirit.
- You are fluent in written and spoken English.
- You are motivated to further grow as a researcher and to actively contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and the preparation of a doctoral dissertation.
What we offer
- We offer a doctoral scholarship (full time) for a period of one year. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed, up to a maximum term of four years.
- We offer the opportunity to take part in academic activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.
- The planned start date is 1 November 2026 or as soon as possible after that date.
- Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
- As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
- You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
- You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
- Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.
Want to apply?
- You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including Monday 24 August 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
- a motivation letter, in English
- your academic CV, indicating your competences, in English
- the contact details of at least two referees
- The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure. Please note the following dates in your calendar: 7 and 8 September 2026 (selection interviews). The selection interviews will take place at Campus Drie Eiken of the University of Antwerp.
- If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Prof. dr. An Wouters ([email protected]) or dr. Hannah Zaryouh ([email protected]).
The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.
