Job description

The Lung Research Lab of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Ghent University Hospital is looking for a highly motivated researcher to join the team. More specifically, we are looking for a PhD student who will be involved in translational research into the pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Worldwide more than 300 million people suffer from COPD and more than 3 million people die from COPD each year, making it the third leading cause of death. Disturbances in pulmonary cell death pathways (including apoptosis, necroptosis and ferroptosis), as well as impaired clearance of dead and dying cells (also called efferocytosis), contribute to the chronic inflammation and tissue destruction in patients with COPD. The aims of this FWO funded research project are to characterize the pathogenic contribution of different modes of regulated cell death and to elucidate the defects in the different phases of efferocytosis in both experimental and human COPD. We offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and multidisciplinary academic research environment. As this project is a collaboration with the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia, a research stay in Australia is possible and encouraged.

Job profile

- Master’s degree (or graduation in 2023) in medical sciences, biotechnology, bioengineering, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences or veterinary sciences
- You have (or are willing to obtain) a Felasa C certificate to work with laboratory animals
- You have a strong interest in scientific research
- Work in an organized manner with good reporting skills
- You are a motivated and flexible team player with good communication skills
- You have excellent oral and written communication skills and have a good knowledge of English

We offer a position for a duration of 4 years (1 + 3).

How to apply

For further information or to apply (include motivation letter, curriculum vitae with study results and contact information of two potential referees), please contact: Prof. Dr. Ken Bracke (Email: ken.bracke@UGent.be)