PhD in Modular Phage-Based Nanocarriers for Radioligand Therapy Belgian Nuclear Research Centre in Belgium

This PhD opportunity at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) focuses on the development of modular bacteriophage-based nanocarriers for targeted radioligand therapy (RLT), a cutting-edge approach in precision oncology. Radioligand therapy leverages ionizing radiation from radionuclide decay to selectively damage tumor cell DNA, aiming for cytotoxic eradication of cancer cells. Despite advances in cancer treatment, current delivery systems often lack specificity and can cause off-target toxicity. This project seeks to overcome these limitations by engineering bacteriophages—viruses that infect bacteria—into biocompatible, structurally regular, and genetically modifiable carriers for radiotherapeutic agents.

The research will integrate tumor-targeting ligands, radiometal chelators, and bio-orthogonal functional groups into phage structures, transforming them into programmable vectors for precise drug and radionuclide delivery. The project combines state-of-the-art genetic engineering, chemical bioconjugation, and radiochemistry techniques to evaluate the therapeutic potential of these phage-based nanocarriers. Over a four-year period, the work will progress from molecular design and phage production to preclinical validation in relevant tumor models, with the goal of accelerating the development and clinical availability of innovative nuclear therapies.

As a PhD student at SCK CEN, you will benefit from a multidisciplinary research environment, close collaboration with academic partners, and access to advanced facilities designed for nuclear experiments. The SCK CEN Academy offers excellent internal training courses and fosters knowledge exchange among experts in various fields. The position is based in Mol, Antwerp, Belgium, and is open to candidates with a Master of Science or Master of Science in Engineering, preferably with backgrounds in bio-engineering, biology, or biochemistry. Excellent English language skills are required.

Application is open until 31 March 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the SCK CEN website and may contact [email protected] for further information. For details on eligibility and selection criteria, refer to the SCK CEN PhD theses page. This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of cancer research and the development of life-saving nuclear therapies.