Postdoctoral Position in Veterinary Sciences

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

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 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.

Profile

• You hold a Master 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 pig) 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
  • uttermost attention to detail
  • positive attitude towards working on a very challenging project
  • driving license
• Desired competencies/skills:
  • microdissection skills
  • reprogramming 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

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of 2 years, renewable with an additional 2 years after positive evaluation.
• The planned start date is 1 May 2025 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.
• 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 20 February 2025(by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:contact of 1 professional referee
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
  • a summary of your Master thesis
  • a weblink to a short video (2 min) introducing yourself. You can paste the link to the video in your motivation letter.
• 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 in end March/begin April 2025.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Ruth Appeltant, TT research professor, ruth.appeltant@uantwerpen.be 

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.