The Hebrew University of Jerusalem invites applications for a PhD position focused on the development of metabolic MRI agents for cancer detection and treatment monitoring. This opportunity is based at the Ein Kerem campus, a central hub for medical and health-related research, adjacent to Hadassah Hospital and home to the Faculty of Medicine and School of Dentistry. The Division of Imaging at Hadassah Medical Center specializes in advancing medical imaging methods and contrast agents to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

This PhD project is part of a European Commission-funded initiative aimed at creating MRI contrast agents that deliver metabolic information, thereby improving cancer identification and enabling early treatment monitoring. The research will involve access to state-of-the-art magnetic resonance instrumentation, including a dDNP Spin Polarizer, NMR spectrometer for perfused tissues, and a clinical MRI scanner for X-nuclei. Candidates will work with novel stable-isotope-labeled compounds and biological systems, developing new MRI contrast agents such as hyperpolarized substrates and deuterium-labeled compounds.

Supervision will be provided by Professor Rachel Katz-Brull, a renowned scientist at Hadassah Medical Organization and Professor of Imaging at the Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine. She leads the Centre for MRI Metabolic Imaging, with research expertise in dissolution-dynamic nuclear polarization (dDNP) and the development of molecular imaging probes for C-13, P-31, and N-15 hyperpolarized MRI. Her work includes pioneering glucose and choline imaging methods that avoid ionizing radiation.

Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of 2,500–3,000 USD. Applicants should possess an MSc or BSc in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, or a related field. Experience in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is highly valued, and a background in metabolism or cancer metabolism is advantageous. The ability to work independently and collaboratively is essential.

The Hebrew University fosters a diverse and inclusive academic environment, welcoming students from over 90 countries. The university is consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 research institutions, with a strong tradition of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Jerusalem offers a vibrant cultural and historical setting, providing students with numerous opportunities for enrichment outside the laboratory.

To apply, submit three separate PDFs: a letter of motivation, your CV (including a list of publications), and a copy of your original academic degree(s). Applications must be submitted via the provided link by March 31, 2026. For more information about the university and its research environment, visit the official website.