PhD Student

Job description

Exciting research topic in the field of liquid biopsies and cell free RNA. The goal is to implement minimally invasive biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognostication and functional characterization of patients with an aggressive lymphoma in daily practice.

This project is a collaboration between the OncoRNALab (Ghent university) and the hematology department (Ghent University Hospital).
Promotors: prof. dr. Jo Vandesompele and prof. dr. Pieter Mestdagh / Co-promotor: prof. dr. Fritz Offner

1. Research Tasks:

• RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, RNA sequencing
• Apply Python and R for data analysis, visualization, and statistical modeling
• Ability to work with large-scale genomic/transcriptomic datasets
• Familiarity with Linux/Unix command-line environments.
• Gain clinical insights in lymphoma
  
  

1. What we can offer you

• We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months. The funding has already been acquired (Kom op tegen Kanker).
• Your contract will start on 01/01/2025 at the earliest. (although flexible)
• Pioneering work in a highly dynamic and promising research field.
• The majority of samples have been collected
• Support from bioinformaticians and lab technicians is available
• Extensive expertise, supported by the publication of multiple studies on this topic
• Amazing colleagues
• The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by the Department of Personnel and Organization based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax. Click here for more information about our salary scales
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits (in Dutch).

Job profile

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student with a strong interest in fundamental cancer research, combining basic laboratory work, clinical insight, and bioinformatics. While prior experience is not required, the PhD fellow should have a passion for interdisciplinary research, a collaborative mindset, and a strong desire to learn and grow in this dynamic feld.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Strong interest in genome research and sequencing technologies.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken).

How to apply

Applications should be submitted by January 1st, 2025.
Send a motivation letter, curriculum vitae and a copy of your diploma (if already in your possession) with detailed study results (per year) to dr. Decruyenaere Philippe (Email: philippe.decruyenaere@UZGent.be)

We do not accept late applicatoins.

For more information about this vacancy, please contact dr. Decruyenaere Philippe (philippe.decruyenaere@uzgent.be, +32(0)9/3329178)
Please also include extracurricular activities and the contact information of two references.

This exciting opportunity allows you to contribute to cutting-edge liquid biopsy research.