PhD candidate in Physiology/Pharmacology

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university...

The Department of Pharmacy within the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences is seeking a full‑time PhD candidate in Physiology/Pharmacology.

Position

• You are actively working on the preparation and defense of a doctoral thesis in Physiology and Pharmacology. You will take part in a project investigating the protective effects of a new molecule against heart failure. Our lab recently discovered EF‑1, a molecule that activates ERBB4. However, the effects appear to be more pronounced in female mice. In this project, we aim to determine the cause of this difference.
• You will contribute by processing human samples, establishing mouse models, and performing molecular studies.
• You publish scientific papers related to the research project.
• You take on a limited set of teaching and supporting tasks for the Physiology department.

Profile

• You hold a Master’s degree in Medicine, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, or a related field, or you will obtain the degree by the time of appointment.
• You have an excellent academic track record.
• You work in a quality‑oriented, honest, creative, and collaborative manner.
• You enjoy challenges, problem solving, and are willing to commit fully to the project.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of two years. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed once for another two-year period.
• The intended start date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders
• You receive an internet connectivity allowance and either a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs.
• 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 work mainly on Campus Drie Eiken, PhysioPharmacology lab, in a dynamic and stimulating research environment... supervised intensively by Gilles De Keulenaer and Vincent Segers...

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy until and including 12 May 2026 via the University of Antwerp’s online application platform. Click the ‘Apply’ button and complete the online form. Please attach the following documents: a motivation letter and your curriculum vitae.
• The selection committee will review all applications as soon as possible after the deadline... Please already reserve the following date in your calendar: 27 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 Gilles De Keulenaer: gilles.dekeulenaer@uantwerpen.be.