Ruth Appeltant
1 month ago
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Doctoral scholarship holder in vitro gametogenesis within the context of fertility preservation University of Antwerp in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Oct 7, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
University of Antwerp
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About this position
Doctoral scholarship opportunity at the University of Antwerp in the Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences.
This full-time doctoral position focuses on in vitro gametogenesis within the context of fertility preservation, as part of the SAVAGE (SAVe A GEnome) project. The research aims to develop stem cell-based protocols for genetic rescue, including improving the reprogramming efficiency of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells and building a 3D co-culture system to support follicle growth. The project uses the pig as a domestic large-animal model to help translate findings from mice toward wildlife and biodiversity conservation applications.
The successful candidate will prepare and defend a PhD thesis, publish scientific articles, and present results at scientific conferences. Some teaching and research support work is expected within Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry. Flexibility may be needed for occasional work outside standard office hours.
Eligibility highlights: a Master's degree in life sciences (biomedical, biotechnological, veterinary or pharmaceutical sciences) or completion by the start date; excellent academic performance; solid experience in stem cell culture and molecular techniques; willingness to work with animal models and tissue; strong English communication skills; good organization, teamwork, independence, and attention to detail. A valid Belgian driving license is required. Experience with reprogramming, iPSC handling, flow cytometry, assisted reproductive techniques, publication/presentation activity, grant writing, and FELASA certification are desirable. Dutch is helpful but not required.
Funding: a doctoral scholarship is offered for 1 year and may be renewed annually for up to 3 additional years after positive evaluations. The stipend follows the BAP pay scales and includes ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and either a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs.
Application deadline: 7 October 2026 (midnight Brussels time). Applications are submitted via the University of Antwerp online platform and must include a motivation letter, academic CV, summary of the Master's thesis, a 2-minute introductory video link, and contact details of one professional referee.
Contact: For questions about the job itself, contact Ruth Appeltant at [email protected]. General application questions can be sent to [email protected].
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold, or will have obtained by the start date, a Master's degree in life sciences, specifically biomedical, biotechnological, veterinary or pharmaceutical sciences, and should demonstrate excellent study results. Required experience includes stem cell handling and culture, molecular techniques, willingness to work with animal models including pigs and tissue, fluent use of computer software such as Microsoft Office, SPSS/Prism and Endnote, flexibility to learn new skills, the ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team, strong organization and time management, excellent oral and written English, attention to detail, and a willingness to acquire external funding. A driving license valid in Belgium is required. Desired skills include microdissection, reprogramming via transduction/transfection, induced pluripotent stem cell handling, flow cytometry, assisted reproductive techniques, publication/presentation experience, grant writing, Dutch language knowledge as a plus, fluent presentation skills, a FELASA certificate, and interest in conservation of animals. Foreign applicants from outside the EU should check visa regulations.
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Professors
Research Professor at University of Antwerp
Belgium
Research Interests
Conservation Biology
Animal Science
Conservation Genetics
Fertility Preservation
Veterinary Science
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