The University of Antwerp, a leading European institution, is offering a full-time PhD position in the field of translational neuroimmunology, specifically focused on Parkinson’s disease. This opportunity is embedded within the Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Lab (Prof. Seppe De Schepper, VIB–UAntwerp) and the Parkinson’s Disease Research Team (Prof. David Crosiers, Translational Neurosciences Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAntwerp; Department of Neurology, UZA). The project aims to map how peripheral and circulating immune cells reflect early Parkinson’s disease biology, with a particular focus on high-risk individuals and PD patients. The goal is to identify circulating immune signatures that anticipate disease onset and progression, leveraging advanced single-cell and immune-profiling approaches linked to clinical phenotyping.

As a PhD candidate, you will coordinate clinical cohorts, process samples, perform immune profiling, and interpret data. You will work closely with neurologists on patient inclusion and sample workflows, and have access to VIB core facilities and data-science support. The research environment is highly collaborative and translational, offering opportunities to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at international conferences, and contribute to open, reproducible science practices. You will also be expected to submit and defend an innovative project at the FWO to obtain a personal fellowship, with full support from the team.

Applicants should hold a medical degree or MSc in biomedical sciences, medicine, bioengineering, or a related field, with excellent academic results. A strong interest in immunology and neurodegeneration is essential. Experience with human samples and immunophenotyping tools (such as flow cytometry) is advantageous, but motivated candidates without prior experience are encouraged to apply. Excellent communication skills in English are required, and Dutch is an asset for patient-facing coordination. The position requires a proactive, rigorous, and solution-oriented approach, with attention to quality, integrity, creativity, and cooperation. Candidates should be comfortable working at the clinic–lab interface and motivated to participate in an international project, including possible travel.

The position offers a doctoral scholarship for an initial period of one year, renewable upon positive evaluation. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to university rates, and additional benefits include ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and either a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting. The successful candidate will work primarily at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and training in advanced techniques. Career development, networking, and mentorship opportunities are provided, along with support for presenting at conferences and publishing research.

To apply, candidates should use the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform, submitting a cover letter detailing research interests, experience, and motivation, a curriculum vitae (including publications), and contact information for two references. The selection committee reviews applications promptly, and candidates will be notified of decisions and next steps. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]; for job-specific inquiries, contact [email protected].

The University of Antwerp is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The institution has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award and invests in the growth and well-being of its employees.