Vacancy for PhD on FWO project “Saving the cytoplasm to overcome oocyte related infertility”

About

Infertility affects one in six couples and assisted reproductive technologies cannot always provide a solution, especially when oocyte quality is affected. In this FWO project, we will examine reduced oocyte quality by vitrification or by advanced maternal age. We will explore two strategies to improve the developmental competence of these oocytes: (1) by signalling molecules in the natural follicular environment and (2) by nuclear transfer. Due to similarities in the physiology of reproduction and ageing, the horse will be used as a model for human. The most promising treatments will be validated in human oocytes. To this end, there is intensive cooperation between the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (Prof. Katrien Smits) and the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Prof. Dominic Stoop). At the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, we have a vacancy for a PhD student who will focus on the equine research.

Are you looking for a challenging job for the next 4 years? Are you fascinated by research and interested in equine and human infertility issues? Would you like to work in an international team with other passionate researchers and postdocs, to learn how to master techniques such as in vitro fertilisation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, micromanipulation and molecular analyses? Then you might be the right candidate to apply for this job!

Profile

You have a scientific attitude and hold a European Master's degree in medicine, veterinary medicine, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, bioengineering, biology or related sciences by September 2024. High degrees serve as a recommendation but are not mandatory. We are especially searching for a motivated, flexible and engaged team player. A European driver’s license B is needed for the job. Master students in their final year which will graduate by September 2024 are encouraged to apply.

Interested?

Are you interested? Then send an e-mail with your CV and application letter to Prof. Katrien Smits by the 25th of March 2024. Individual interviews with all selected candidates will follow in the second half of April 2024. The contract will start from 1st of September 2024, but the starting date can be flexible depending on availability or preference of the selected candidate.

More info

More info on a PhD at Ghent University? https://www.ugent.be/en/research/doctoralresearch/overview.htm