PhD Position: Cognitive Functioning after Cancer – Evaluation of a 12‑Week Integrative Program
The Translational MRI research group at KU Leuven, led by Professor Stefan Sunaert, offers a PhD position focused on cognitive functioning after cancer. This project addresses the persistent cognitive difficulties experienced by cancer survivors, such as memory, attention, and executive functioning problems, commonly known as cancer-related cognitive impairment or 'chemo brain.' These issues can significantly affect daily life, work, and overall quality of life.
The PhD project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week integrative lifestyle intervention designed to improve cognitive functioning in cancer survivors. The research will also explore the underlying biological and neural mechanisms associated with these improvements. The candidate will begin by systematically reviewing scientific literature on similar interventions, using these insights to optimize and pilot the 12-week program. The main phase involves executing and coordinating a clinical intervention study, with participants assessed before and after the intervention using neuropsychological testing, questionnaires, behavioral and biomarker analyses, and advanced MRI imaging.
Responsibilities include participant recruitment and follow-up, data collection, neuroimaging analysis, statistical processing, and scientific reporting. The project is embedded in a multidisciplinary collaboration involving the Translational MRI research group, clinical partners at UZ Leuven, and researchers from behavioral sciences, rehabilitation, and clinical disciplines.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Psychology, Movement Sciences, Bioengineering, or a related field. Essential qualifications include excellent academic performance, strong interest in neuroscience and medical imaging, lifestyle interventions, and translational research, as well as strong analytical skills, a critical and curious mindset, proactive and independent working attitude, excellent organizational skills, collaborative and flexible team orientation, and excellent communication skills in English (oral and written) and native-level proficiency in Dutch. Additional assets are training in medical laboratory techniques, experience with clinical or intervention studies, knowledge of lifestyle interventions, experience with MRI or neuroimaging analysis, and knowledge of statistical analysis methods.
The position offers a full-time PhD appointment in an innovative and multidisciplinary research environment, with initial funding for one year and the possibility of further funding for continuation. The candidate will join a team of clinicians, psychologists, and neuroscientists, gaining expertise in clinical research, neuropsychology, and advanced brain imaging. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a supportive and respectful environment for all researchers.
Applications should be submitted online via the KU Leuven job portal. For further information, contact Dr. Sabine Deprez at [email protected]. The application deadline is June 26, 2026.
