Doctoral scholarship holder in vitro gametogenesis within the context of fertility preservation

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The Department of Veterinary Sciences in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of in vitro gametogenesis within the context of fertility preservation.

Position

You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of fertility preservation based on stem cell technologies, more specifically in vitro gametogenesis, on the project:

SAVAGE (SAVe A GEnome), in vitro gametogenesis for genetic rescue

The Earth faces an unprecedented extinction crisis. Assisted reproductive technologies and cryobanking are crucial for preserving mammalian genetic diversity, but challenges persist due to lack of oocyte scarcity. Using somatic cells for generating offspring through in vitro gametogenesis has been explored. We aim to establish protocols to enhance the reprogramming efficiency of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells and to create a 3D co-culture system allowing the growth of follicles. Using pigs as a domestic large animal model, we aim to bridge the gap between mice and wildlife applications, aiding biodiversity conservation.

• You will publish scientific articles related to the research project and attend scientific conferences with poster or oral presentations.
• You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry.
• The position may occasionally require work outside standard office hours, and the candidate should be prepared to work flexibly when project demands require it.

Profile

• You hold a Master's degree in life sciences ((bio)medical, biotechnological, veterinary or pharmaceutical sciences) or you will have obtained it by the time you start work.
• You can demonstrate excellent study results.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• You stand for open and honest communication.
• Foreign applicants from outside of the European Union are asked to inform themselves about visa regulations.
• Essential competencies/skills:
  • experience in (stem) cell handling and culture
  • experience with molecular techniques
  • willingness to work with animal models (including pigs) and tissue
  • fluent user of computer software (e.g. Microsoft Office, SPSS/Prism, Endnote,…)
  • flexibility to learn new skills and develop novel approaches for analysis
  • ability to work independently within a dynamic multi-disciplinary team
  • team-oriented personality
  • self-motivation, good organisation and time management
  • excellent knowledge of the English language, in both oral and written communication
  • utmost attention to detail
  • positive attitude towards working on a very challenging project
  • willingness to acquire external funding
  • driving license valid in Belgium
• Desired competencies/skills:
  • microdissection skills
  • reprogramming (transduction and transfection) and induced pluripotent stem cell handling experience
  • flow cytometry experience
  • experience with assisted reproductive techniques
  • experience in contributing to publications/presentations (inter)nationally
  • ability to generate research income and grant application writing skills
  • knowledge of Dutch is a plus, but no requirement
  • fluent presentation skills
  • in possession of a FELASA (laboratory animal science) certificate
  • interest in conservation of animals

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of 1 year, renewable per year with a max of 3 additional years after positive evaluations.
• The planned start date is 1 February 2027 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken, Wilrijk, Belgium, in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 7 October 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
  • a summary of your Master's thesis
  • a weblink to a short video (2 min) introducing yourself
  • contact of 1 professional referee
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure. Please note that selection interviews (online or on campus) will happen at the end of October/beginning of November 2026.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Ruth Appeltant, TT research professor, [email protected].

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.