Postdoctoral Fellow in Pediatrics

Ghent University

Department GE35 – Internal Medicine and Pediatrics
Ghent University

Position Overview

Ghent University is offering a full-time doctoral fellow position (PhD) within the field of paediatric gastroenterology and hepatology, focusing on non-invasive diagnostic tools for liver disease in children with obesity.

  • Occupancy rate: 100%
  • Vacancy type: Research staff
  • Degree required: Master in Medicine
  • Application deadline: 15 June 2026, 23:59
  • Start date: 01/08/2026 or 01/09/2026

Research Context

This PhD project is embedded in:

  • Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Prof. Ruth De Bruyne)
  • Hepatology Research Unit (Dr. Sander Lefere)

The research focuses on improving diagnosis and risk stratification of paediatric liver disease in obesity using non-invasive methods.

Your Tasks

You will:

  • Conduct scientific research toward a PhD in Medicine and Health Sciences
  • Recruit paediatric patients in clinical settings
  • Perform non-invasive liver assessments
  • Collect and analyse clinical datasets
  • Support and guide patients during liver MRI examinations
  • Contribute to imaging data analysis
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams and external hospitals in West and East Flanders
  • Work closely with a study nurse responsible for patient recruitment
  • Supervise Master’s thesis students
  • Publish and disseminate research findings

What We Are Looking For

  • Master’s degree in Medicine
  • Strong interest in paediatrics and/or hepatology
  • Good academic performance during Master’s studies
  • Strong motivation for scientific research
  • Independent, structured, and problem-solving mindset
  • Strong communication and teaching skills
  • Fluency in English and Dutch (Dutch is important for patient interaction)
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team
  • Category B driving licence preferred

What We Offer

  • Full-time doctoral fellowship (12-month initial contract, extendable up to 48 months after positive evaluation)
  • Start date: August or September 2026
  • Net fellowship equivalent to AAP salary (tax-free under conditions)

Benefits include:

  • 36 days of annual leave + bridge days
  • Bicycle allowance
  • Eco vouchers
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Broad academic and clinical research environment

Application Process

Send application to:

???? sander.lefere@ugent.be

Required documents:

  • CV
  • Copy of diploma (if available)
  • Motivation letter

Late applications are not accepted.

Contact

Apply