Aline Verstraeten

The University of Antwerp invites applications for a full-time doctoral scholarship holder position focused on mapping genetic background-driven phenotypic variability in mouse models of IPO8 syndrome. This project is embedded within the Center of Medical Genetics (CMG) in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, offering a dynamic and stimulating research environment with substantial expertise in hereditary diseases, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal disorders. IPO8 syndrome is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by severe morbidity in childhood, with no targeted therapies currently available. The project aims to advance preclinical research by developing and characterizing disease models using Ipo8 -/- mouse models on different genetic backgrounds. Key research activities include phenotyping the arterial tree with advanced imaging techniques, characterizing craniofacial and spinal abnormalities, and applying single-cell RNA sequencing to unravel molecular signatures that modify aortopathy penetrance. Supervised by Prof. Aline Verstraeten, Prof. Josephina Meester, and Dr. Wouter Steyaert, the project leverages expertise in cardiovascular and connective tissue disorders as well as bioinformatics. The successful candidate will actively prepare a PhD thesis, publish high-quality scientific articles, and present research at national and international conferences. Applicants must hold a Master degree in (Bio)medical sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or Biomedical Engineering, or obtain it by the start date. Required skills include a FELASA B or FELASA C certificate, fluency in English, and strong research qualities. Desirable skills are expertise in mouse work, cardiovascular or skeletal diseases, and RNA sequencing data analysis. The position offers a doctoral scholarship for one year, extendable for three additional years after positive evaluation, with a monthly scholarship amount according to standard rates, ecocheques, bicycle allowance or public transport reimbursement, and access to courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School. The planned start date is 01 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by 25 June 2026, including a motivation letter and academic CV. The selection committee will review applications after the deadline and notify candidates of next steps. For questions, contact [email protected] or the listed supervisors. 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 offers a family-friendly, sustainable working environment.