Summary: The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is inviting applications for a fully funded, full-time PhD position within the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Observational Clinical Sciences. Based at the Center for Medical Genetics on the Brussels Health Campus in Jette, the doctoral researcher will focus on developing cutting-edge diagnostic technologies for chromosomal abnormalities in early IVF embryos. This position offers a competitive grant, comprehensive benefits, and an initial 1-year contract renewable for up to 4 years.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Reproductive Genetics & Bioinformatics at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Belgium
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position / Designation | PhD Researcher / Doctoral Grant Recipient |
| Host Institution | Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department Observational Clinical Sciences (Center for Medical Genetics) |
| Research Focus | Reproductive Genetics, Bioinformatics & Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGT) |
| Location | Brussels Health Campus (Jette), Brussels, Belgium |
| Contract Duration | 12 months initial (extendable up to a maximum of 48 months) |
| Starting Date | 15 November 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 15 October 2026 |
Designation
PhD-Student with a Doctoral Grant (Full-time doctorate candidate enrolled at Vrije Universiteit Brussel).
Research Area
The research is situated within Reproductive Genetics, Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), and Computational Biology. Hosted at the Center for Medical Genetics—one of Belgium’s eight accredited Centers for Human Genetics—the project involves optimizing genomic methods using the latest sequencing technologies to identify chromosomal abnormalities in early IVF embryos, ultimately enhancing clinical patient care.
Location
The home base for this position is the Brussels Health Campus (Jette), located in Brussels, Belgium.
Scholarship Description
The successful applicant will be awarded a full-time doctoral grant aligned with government salary scales. Key aspects of the offer include:
- Duration: 12-month initial appointment, extendable up to 48 months (4 years) contingent on positive performance evaluations.
- Leave & Work-Life Balance: 35 days of annual leave (full-time basis), university closure between Christmas and New Year, and 3 additional leave days.
- Telework Options: Flexible remote work arrangements, including a telework allowance of €50 per month OR an internet allowance of €20 per month.
- Insurance: Cost-free hospitalisation insurance.
- Commuting Support: 100% reimbursement for public transit commuting according to VUB policy, or a bicycle commuting allowance.
- On-Campus Amenities: High-quality campus restaurants with subsidized prices, fitness/sports facilities, and an on-campus nursery.
- Discounts & Perks: Benefits@Work program discounts (retail, flights, parks, etc.) and Ecocheques.
Eligibility / Qualification
Candidates must meet the following technical and administrative criteria:
- Academic Degree: Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline (degree must be obtained before the official start date).
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in programming languages such as R or Python, and familiarity with Linux and High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments.
- Genomic Data: Demonstrated experience or proven interest in large-scale genomic data analysis (evidenced by thesis, course projects, or internships).
- Analytical Background: Sound knowledge of statistics, machine learning, or data visualization techniques.
- Soft Skills: Strong analytical mindset, self-driven work ethic, ability to work in an interdisciplinary team, and excellent oral/written English communication skills.
- Prior Experience Limit: Must not have performed work as an assistant paid from operating resources for a cumulative period of more than 12 months.
- Nationality: Open to both EEA and non-EEA nationals (non-EEA applicants must meet conditions to obtain a Belgian residence permit).
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application electronically through the official VUB job portal. The application package must include:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A tailored Motivation Letter detailing research interests and suitability for the position.
- Copies of relevant Academic Diplomas/Transcripts (not required for VUB alumni).
Inquiries regarding the position: Contact Pieter Verdyck via email at pieter.verdyck@uzbrussel.be or by phone at +32 24749038.
Last Date for Apply
15 October 2026 (23:59 CET)
Apply Link
Apply Online for VUB PhD Position
