Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD Position in Neuroimmunology at the renowned VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology. The doctoral position is hosted jointly by the research laboratories of Prof. Emanuela Pasciuto and Prof. Sarah Weckhuysen within the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Antwerp.
Overview
| Program / Designation | Doctoral Scholarship Holder (PhD Position) |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Neuroimmunology & Biomedical Sciences |
| Host Institution | VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, University of Antwerp |
| Location | Antwerp, Belgium |
| Positions Available | 1 |
| Duration | 1 year initial, renewable for an additional 3 years (up to 4 years total) |
| Expected Start Date | February 2027 |
| Application Deadline | 26 November 2026 (Midnight Brussels Time) |
Designation
Doctoral Scholarship Holder (PhD Researcher) – 100% full-time position.
Research Area
Biomedical Sciences, Neuroimmunology, Genetics, and Biotechnology involving human samples and translational animal disease models.
Location
Campus Drie Eiken, VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology (VIB-CMN), Antwerp, Belgium.
Scholarship Description
The successful candidate will undertake high-impact doctoral research focused on neuroimmunology. Key duties and offerings include:
- Preparation and successful public defense of a doctoral thesis in the field of Biomedical Sciences.
- Formulating research methodologies, executing experiments using human samples and animal models, and analyzing data.
- Reporting research findings to supervisory committees, presenting at international conferences, and publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Full doctoral scholarship stipend in accordance with official university doctoral scholarship scales.
- Comprehensive benefits including eco-cheques, bicycle allowance or full public transport commuting reimbursement.
- Access to transferable skills and specialized academic training through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
- Appointment for an initial period of 1 year, extendable up to 3 additional years upon positive evaluation.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Hold an MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related discipline (or anticipate obtaining it prior to appointment). The qualifying master’s degree must have been obtained no earlier than 1 February 2026.
- Meet the eligibility criteria to apply for an FWO predoctoral fellowship (refer to FWO diploma eligibility guidelines Art. 6).
- Hold a valid FELASA-B certificate and demonstrate comfort working with rodent animal models.
- Possess a strong academic record with demonstrated excellence in studies.
- A solid foundation in immunology and/or genetics is considered a strong advantage.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Commitment to academic integrity, quality, teamwork, and scientific innovation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application online through the official VIB application portal. Please prepare and attach the following required documents:
- A comprehensive cover letter detailing your motivation.
- An up-to-date academic Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact details for at least two academic references.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and asked to deliver a short PowerPoint presentation covering an introduction of themselves and a literature review on a selected topic related to the PhD project.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for application submission is 26 November 2026 (by midnight Brussels time).
Apply Link
To submit your application, please visit the official recruitment portal: Apply for PhD Position in Neuroimmunology at VIB.
