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

Antwerp, Belgium

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:
  ‘Stem4Biodiversity, the generation and banking at room temperature of primordial germ cell-like cells from induced pluripotent stem cells to improve biodiversity conservation.’
• The Earth faces unprecedented extinction levels, termed "the sixth extinction". Assisted reproductive technology and cryobanking emerged as pivotal strategies in safeguarding the genetic diversity in mammalian species. However, oocyte scarcity, harvesting and cryopreservation challenges persist due to the absence of species-specific protocols. Moreover, cryobanks require substantial investment and logistical support, making them available in select regions. To save the genetics that could be forever lost, the use of somatic cells instead of reproductive tissues to generate offspring has been investigated. While the ability to generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) from different endangered mammalian species has been shown, the generation of primordial germ cell-like cells from iPSC is still in its infancy. Stem4Biodiversity aims to bridge this gap by accelerating research based on domestic mammalian species that can serve as models for their wild counterparts. By enhancing our understanding of rare species biology and facilitating the exchange of genetic material, Stem4Biodiversity will contribute to reversing biodiversity loss and aid wildlife population management. This information is crucial for decision-making in managing and monitoring both ex situ and in situ wildlife populations.
• You will publish scientific articles related to the research project and attend scientific conferences with poster or oral presentations. Daily responsibilities include conducting wet lab experiments, performing literature reviews, completing scientific writing assignments, and participating in meetings.
• You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks for Veterinary physiology and biochemistry.
• You will participate in stable duties during and outside of working hours to support the Camelid Immunisation Facility.

Profile

• You hold a Master degree in life sciences ((bio)medical, biotechnological, biology, 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 365, 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 valid in Belgium
  • in possession of a FELASA (laboratory animal science) certificate or willing to obtain it in the first year of the PhD
  • international mindset, willingness to travel and work abroad
• Desired competencies/skills:
  • micromanipulation skills
  • (micro)dissection skills
  • reprogramming and induced pluripotent stem cell handling experience
  • flow cytometry experience
  • cell imaging 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
  • familiarity with laboratory safety procedures and regulations

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of 2 years, renewable for a maximum of 2 years after a positive evaluation.
• The planned start date is 1 June 2026 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 23 March 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
• If some of the attachments are missing, your application will be declared invalid and will not be considered.
• The selection committee will review all applications possible after the application deadline. As soon as a shortlist is made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure. Selection interviews (online or on campus) will happen in April/May 2026.
• 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, research professor, ruth.appeltant@uantwerpen.be.