Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) PhD fellowship

The University of Antwerp invites applications for a doctoral scholarship in the field of clinical application and translation of whole genome sequencing for rare disease diagnostics. This project, based at the Center for Medical Genetics (CMG) within the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, aims to advance the use of short-read and long-read whole genome sequencing (sr/lrWGS) in routine clinical diagnostics. The research will focus on identifying pathogenic structural variants, detecting novel disease-causing tandem repeats, integrating episignatures into diagnostic algorithms, and interpreting pathogenic non-coding variants. The ultimate goal is to improve diagnostic accuracy and speed for patients with rare diseases.

The project is embedded within the University of Antwerp and the Antwerp University Hospital, leveraging substantial expertise and infrastructure in clinical, molecular, and pathophysiological investigation of hereditary diseases. Research teams led by Prof Dr Bart Loeys and Prof Dr Marije Meuwissen focus on cardiovascular and neurodevelopmental disorders, while co-supervisors Dr Dale Annear and Prof Josephina Meester bring strong backgrounds in bioinformatics and genome dataset analysis.

As a doctoral researcher, you will actively prepare a PhD thesis, publish high-quality scientific articles, and present your work at national and international conferences. You will work in a dynamic and stimulating environment at CMG Antwerp, with access to a wide range of courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.

Applicants must hold a Master degree in (Bio)medical sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, or Bio-informatics, or obtain it by the start date. Eligibility for a Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) PhD fellowship is required. Candidates should demonstrate excellent study results, ambition, integrity, and a strong eye for quality, along with a positive mindset and good communication skills. Fluency in written and spoken English is essential. Project-specific skills include a strong affinity for and expertise in bioinformatics analyses, or a demonstrated strong interest in this field.

The scholarship is offered for one year, with the possibility of extension for three additional years pending positive evaluation and available funding. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to doctoral scholarship holder rates. Additional benefits include ecocheques, a bicycle allowance or reimbursement of public transport costs, and access to courses and educational credit.

The planned start date is September 15, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by June 18, 2026. Required attachments include a motivation letter and academic CV. The selection committee will review applications after the deadline and notify candidates of next steps. For questions about the application form, contact [email protected]; for job-related inquiries, contact Prof Dr Bart Loeys or Prof Dr Marije Meuwissen.

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 sustainable, family-friendly working environment.