PhD Position in FAP-Based Targeted Radionuclides as Immune Modulators in Ovarian & Breast Cancer Belgian Nuclear Research Centre in Belgium

The Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) in Belgium is offering a full-time PhD position focused on FAP-based targeted radionuclides as immune modulators in ovarian and breast cancer. This research opportunity is designed for candidates with a Master of Science in Biology and a strong interest in cancer biology, immunotherapy, and nuclear medicine. The project aims to explore targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) as a transformative approach in oncology, specifically targeting FAP-expressing cancer-associated fibroblasts to disrupt the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and enhance immune infiltration in ovarian cancer (OC) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Key research objectives include investigating the therapeutic synergy between FAP-based TRT and immune checkpoint inhibitors, focusing on both β-emitters (such as 177Lu, 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. Candidates will be involved in characterizing immune modulation, optimizing treatment regimens, and evaluating radiobiological mechanisms, integrating radiopharmaceutical science, immunotherapy, and translational oncology.

The research is conducted within the advanced nuclear and biomedical research setting of SCK CEN, in collaboration with KU Leuven. The expert group RadioPharma Research will provide mentorship, with supervisors including Bjorn Baselet, Irina Primac, An Coosemans, and Frederik Cleeren. Applicants should have a background in biology and relevant research experience in cancer biology, immunotherapy, or nuclear medicine. The estimated duration of the PhD is four years.

While the post does not specify funding details, it is a full-time position at a leading research institution. Interested candidates should consult the application guidelines on the SCK CEN website and contact the listed mentors or promotors for further information. The application deadline is March 31, 2026.

Relevant academic keywords include FAP-targeted radionuclides, immune modulation, cancer therapy, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, nuclear medicine, immunotherapy, radiopharmaceutical science, and translational oncology.