Department: Department of Biomedical Sciences
Regime: Full-time

About the University

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university with more than 20,000 students and over 6,000 staff members from 100+ countries. It is internationally recognized for innovative education, pioneering research, and strong societal engagement.

The university actively contributes to shaping the future through cutting-edge scientific research across disciplines.

Research Group

The position is based in the Bio-Imaging Lab, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences.

The lab focuses on:

• In vivo neuroimaging
• Translational brain imaging biomarkers
• Experimental neuroscience
• Preclinical imaging methodologies

Work takes place at Campus Drie Eiken in a multidisciplinary and international environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Project Title

In vivo neuroimaging biomarkers of safety in Huntington’s disease HTT-lowering therapies

Project Overview

This PhD project investigates safety biomarkers for Huntington’s disease (HD) therapies, specifically focusing on non-allele-selective huntingtin (HTT) lowering strategies.

The central aim is to determine safe levels of sustained HTT reduction using translational imaging-based biomarkers.

Scientific Objectives

You will study the impact of HTT modulation across spatial and temporal scales using a controlled mouse model.

Key research steps include:

1. Model Development

• Generate and validate mouse models for:
  • Moderate HTT reduction
  • Extensive HTT reduction

2. In Vivo Imaging and Analysis

• Assess brain changes using:
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
  • PET (Positron Emission Tomography)

3. Multimodal Phenotyping

• Behavioural testing
• Fluid biomarker analysis
• Omics approaches (molecular profiling)

4. Translational Goal

• Identify safety thresholds for HTT lowering
• Develop imaging-based in vivo safety biomarkers

Scientific Context

The project builds on key literature in Huntington’s disease and neurodegeneration, including studies on:

• HTT gene function and knockout models
• Imaging biomarkers in neurodegenerative disease
• Translational neuroscience approaches

Position Responsibilities

You will:

• Conduct research leading to a PhD in biomedical sciences/neuroscience/imaging
• Develop a research plan with supervisors
• Publish high-quality peer-reviewed papers
• Present research at national and international conferences
• Contribute to ongoing lab research activities
• Apply for external funding (e.g., FWO fellowship in 2027)
• Perform limited teaching and research support duties
• Potentially conduct research abroad

Candidate Profile

You should have (or be close to obtaining) a Master’s degree in:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Pharmacology
• Medical Physics
• Related disciplines

Preferred skills and attributes:

• Strong interest in brain imaging and biomedical research
• Ability to work independently and creatively
• Strong teamwork skills in international environments
• Balance of wet-lab and data analysis work
• Flexibility for experimental schedules
• Fluent English communication skills
• Strong academic performance

Highly valued experience:

• Mouse breeding and genotyping
• In vivo neuroscience experiments
• Neuroimaging (MRI/PET)
• Coding or computational analysis
• FELASA B/C certification (or willingness to obtain it)

What We Offer

• 4-year doctoral scholarship (initial 1-year contract, renewable annually)
• Start date: September–October 2026
• Renewal dependent on positive evaluation

You will receive:

• Training in advanced imaging and neuroscience methods
• Multidisciplinary research experience
• Access to cutting-edge biomedical imaging infrastructure
• Courses via Antwerp Doctoral School
• International collaboration opportunities

Benefits

• Monthly doctoral scholarship (BAP pay scale)
• Ecocheques
• Internet allowance
• Bicycle allowance or public transport reimbursement
• Dynamic international research environment

Application Information

Apply via the University of Antwerp online application portal by 18 June 2026.

Required documents:

• Motivation letter
• Academic CV
• Names and contact details of 2 referees

Contact Information

For project-related questions:

Dr. Daniele Bertoglio
Bio-Imaging Lab PI
???? daniele.bertoglio@uantwerpen.be

Dr. Elisabeth Jonckers
MICA-Bio-Imaging Lab Manager
???? elisabeth.jonckers@uantwerpen.be

General inquiries:
???? jobs@uantwerpen.be

Institutional Values

The University of Antwerp promotes:

• Diversity and inclusion
• Equal opportunity regardless of background or identity
• Family-friendly and sustainable work policies
• International collaboration and openness