PhD student Lipid transfer and communication in neurodegenerative diseases Hasselt University in Belgium

Hasselt University is recruiting a PhD student for a project on lipid transfer and communication in neurodegenerative diseases. The position is embedded in the Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), a multidisciplinary and well-equipped research environment at the Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences. The project sits within the LipiBg Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network, funded by the European Commission through Horizon Europe, and offers a strong international and interdisciplinary training context.

The research focus is on how lipid metabolism influences inflammation, immune-cell function, myelin integrity, and repair processes in the central nervous system. The project addresses major brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease, aiming to understand the transport routes of lipids to the CNS and identify lipids that may promote tissue repair and restore brain function. The successful candidate will work with lipidomics and lipid imaging, single-cell RNA sequencing, high-resolution imaging, multicolor flow cytometry, and advanced molecular and metabolic assays.

Training is a major part of the opportunity. The doctoral candidate will benefit from the MSCA doctoral network programme, including institutional training courses, seminars, transferable-skills workshops, research workshops, summer schools, and mandatory secondments. The role also offers access to state-of-the-art facilities, participation in a lively research group, and a personal career development plan. The candidate will be enrolled in the doctoral programme at Hasselt University.

Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, bio-engineering, biochemistry, biology, neuroscience, or a related specialization. The position is open to researchers of any nationality, but MSCA eligibility rules apply: applicants must not already hold a PhD and must comply with the mobility rule. A strong command of English at B2 level or above is required, along with good academic results, motivation for translational research, and hands-on biomedical research experience. Experience with brain or immune research, lipid metabolism, or bioinformatics is considered a plus.

The appointment is a full-time PhD employment contract for 36 months under MSCA, followed by 12 months under Hasselt University. Funding includes a living allowance, mobility allowance, and family allowance if applicable, together with full social security coverage according to Belgian regulations. The application deadline is 14 August 2026, and applications must be submitted online with a motivation letter, CV, certificates and transcripts, proof of English proficiency, two reference letters, and an MSCA self-declaration.

For academic questions, contact Prof. dr. Jerome Hendriks at [email protected]. For questions about the selection procedure, contact [email protected].