PhD Position in Neuroimmunology

Antwerp VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology

29 Oct 2026

Antwerp

VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology

Emanuela Pasciuto Lab, Sarah Weckhuysen Lab

PhD

1

Application deadline: 26 November, 2026 | Expected start date: February 2027

The lab of Prof. Emanuela Pasciuto and Prof. Sarah Weckhuysen from the VIB-UA Center For Molecular Neurology in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences are looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Neuroimmunology.

About the role

  • You will actively work on the preparation and defense of a PhD thesis in the field of Biomedical Sciences.
  • You will draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisor(s) and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.
  • You will conduct the research efficiently and to an appropriate standard.
  • You will report progress to your supervisor(s) and committees and present your research at scientific conferences.
  • You will work with both human samples and animal models of disease.
  • You will defend your thesis publicly and aim for publication in the scientific press.
  • You will make a supporting, scientific contribution to existing research projects or lines of research within beyond your own doctoral research.
  • You will compete for internal or external predoctoral funding.

Your profile

  • You hold a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, Biotechnologies, (and related discipline)  or you will have obtained it by the time of appointment.
  • The master's degree or equivalent diploma, must have been obtained not earlier than 1 February 2026
  • Candidate must be eligible to apply for a FWO fellowship. Please check eligibility of your Diploma (Art. 6) before applying.
  • Solid background in immunology and or genetics is an advantage
  • You can provide evidence of excellent study results.
  • You hold a FELASA-B certificate, and you are confident with working with rodents.
  • You have a good knowledge of English, both oral and written.
  • Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
  • You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.

Our offer

  • We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of 1 year.  Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed for another three years
  • We offer the opportunity to take part in academic activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.
  • The planned start date is February 2027
  • Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
  • You will receive ecocheques, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.   
  • As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
  • You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken, VIB-CMN, in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
  • Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

  • You can apply for this vacancy through the VIB online job application platform (https://jobs.vib.be/apply/138253) up to and including 26th November 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Be sure to include the following attachments:
    • a motivation letter
    • your academic CV
    • Contact of at least two references
  • The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are short-listed, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure. For the interview, you will be asked to prepare a PowerPoint presentation including a briefly introduction of yourself, and a literature review of a given topic (related to the PhD project).
  • If you have any questions about the job, please contact  [email protected] and [email protected]

For more information about our research center, visit https://cmn.sites.vib.be/en

VIB values diversity - in backgrounds and in experiences. The institute needs people from all backgrounds and ways of life to help build a thriving scientific environment. VIB is therefore looking for candidates who are not only strong in their own aptitudes but care deeply about supporting each other's growth. VIB's collaborators are people with different strengths, experiences and backgrounds, who share a passion for science that generates impact in science and in society. Diversity not only includes race and gender identity, but also nationality, age, disability status, sexual orientation, religion and many other parts of one’s identity. All of VIB’s employees’ points of view are key to its success, and inclusion is everyone's responsibility.