Steven Van Cruchten

The University of Antwerp is seeking a full-time doctoral scholarship holder in the Department of Veterinary Sciences, within the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, to work on reproductive pathophysiology and toxicology. The PhD project is titled Impact of maternal metabolic status and environmental chemical exposure on placental development . The successful candidate will prepare and defend a doctoral thesis, publish scientific articles, present the research at scientific conferences, and contribute limited teaching and research-support activities within the Comparative Perinatal Development and/or Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry group. This opportunity is suited to candidates with a strong life sciences background, especially in biology, biomedical sciences, applied biological sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, veterinary sciences, biochemistry, or biotechnology. The role emphasizes research on placental development, maternal metabolism, reproductive physiology, and toxicological effects of environmental chemicals, with a likely experimental and animal-model component. The position is hosted at the University of Antwerp in Belgium, with most work carried out at Campus Drie Eiken. The university describes itself as a dynamic, international research-intensive institution with a strong commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and an inclusive working environment. Funding is provided as a doctoral scholarship for one year, renewable once for another year after positive evaluation, for a maximum total duration of four years. The monthly scholarship amount follows the standard doctoral scholarship holder rates. Additional benefits include ecocheques, an internet-connectivity allowance, and either a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting. Eligibility highlights include good study results, strong research qualities, teaching competences aligned with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision, and personal qualities such as integrity, creativity, cooperation, and open communication. Applicants must hold or soon obtain a valid EU Certificate of Laboratory Animal Sciences, and experience with animal models is preferred. Candidates are also expected to be willing to apply for externally financed personal research grants such as FWO. The application deadline is 30 September 2026 at midnight Brussels time. Applicants should apply via the University of Antwerp online platform and provide a motivation letter, CV, Master thesis summary, a short introductory video link, and one professional referee contact. For job-specific questions, contact the supervisors; for technical application questions, use [email protected].