PhD Position: FAP-based Targeted Radionuclides as Immune Modulators in Ovarian and Breast Cancer Belgian Nuclear Research Centre in Belgium

This PhD opportunity at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) focuses on the development and evaluation of FAP-based targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) as immune modulators in ovarian and breast cancer. The project addresses two aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers—ovarian cancer (OC) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)—by leveraging the dual cytotoxic and immunomodulatory effects of TRT within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The research aims to overcome immune resistance by targeting FAP-expressing cancer-associated fibroblasts, thereby disrupting the immunosuppressive TME and promoting immune cell infiltration.

Key research objectives include investigating the therapeutic synergy between FAP-based TRT and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), with a focus on both β-emitters (such as 177Lu and 161Tb) and α-emitters (such as 225Ac). The project will utilize preclinical studies in syngeneic and oncogenic murine models to assess biodistribution, immune activation, and tumor response. The work will involve characterizing immune modulation, optimizing treatment regimens, and evaluating radiobiological mechanisms to advance combination therapy platforms for OC and TNBC toward clinical application.

As a PhD student, you will be part of the SCK CEN Academy for Nuclear Science and Technology, benefiting from a multidisciplinary and international research environment. The Academy offers excellent training opportunities, close cooperation with the academic sector, and access to innovative facilities designed for nuclear experiments. You will collaborate with experienced experts and engage in knowledge exchanges across various scientific domains.

Eligibility requires a Master of Science degree or equivalent in Biology, with a strong background in biological sciences and excellent English language skills. The PhD is expected to last four years. For further details on eligibility and the selection process, refer to the SCK CEN PhD theses page.

Applications should be submitted online via the SCK CEN website before the deadline of March 31, 2026. For inquiries, contact [email protected]. This position is not funded by the EU Research Framework Programme and is based in Mol, Antwerp, Belgium.