An Wouters

The University of Antwerp is offering a full-time doctoral scholarship in Experimental Oncology within the Center for Oncological Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The project focuses on therapy resistance and innovative targeted combination strategies in head and neck cancer , making this a strong opportunity for candidates interested in translational cancer research, molecular mechanisms of resistance, and preclinical experimentation. The successful candidate will prepare and defend a PhD thesis while actively contributing to the research plan, experimental design, publication output, conference presentations, and scientific communication activities. The role also includes a limited amount of teaching and research support tasks, plus participation in the research culture of the center. There may be opportunities to conduct part of the research abroad and to contribute to broader research projects within the group. Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold, or be close to obtaining, a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, biochemistry and biotechnology, bioscience engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field. Strong academic results are required. Candidates must be eligible for doctoral appointment. A FELASA B or C certificate is required or should be obtained. The profile also seeks knowledge of cell biology, molecular oncology, signal transduction, and immunology, with interest or experience in 3D cell culture, patient-derived organoids, cytotoxicity assays, flow cytometry, molecular biology techniques, and laboratory animal experiments. Experience in biological data analysis and tools such as R or Python is considered an asset. Funding and conditions: the position is a full-time doctoral scholarship initially funded for one year, renewable after positive evaluation up to a maximum of four years. The monthly scholarship amount follows the university’s doctoral scholarship scales. Additional benefits include ecocheques, internet connectivity allowance, and either a bicycle allowance or full public transport reimbursement. Most work will be carried out at Campus Drie Eiken in Antwerp. Application window: apply online by 24 August 2026 (midnight Brussels time). Selection interviews are scheduled for 7 and 8 September 2026 at Campus Drie Eiken. Applicants should submit a motivation letter, an English CV with competences, and the contact details of at least two referees.