Belgium – PhD in Cancer Immunology

This position is no longer available.

University: KU Leuven

Country: Belgium

Deadline:

Fields: Medicine, Biotechnology, Biosciences, Biomedicine, Bioinformatics

Are you passionate about making a tangible impact on cancer treatment and eager to contribute to the next generation of immunotherapy strategies? If you are driven by the desire to translate cutting-edge scientific research into clinical advances for cancer patients, this opportunity at KU Leuven could be the next step in your academic journey.

About The University Or Research Institute

KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven) is one of Europe's most renowned research universities, consistently ranked among the top academic institutions worldwide. Located in the vibrant city of Leuven, Belgium, KU Leuven offers a dynamic and international research environment, fostering collaboration and innovation across disciplines. The university is known for its commitment to excellence in research, education, and societal impact, making it an attractive destination for ambitious scholars from around the globe. Belgium, situated at the heart of Europe, provides a culturally rich and diverse setting, offering students access to a high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and proximity to major European cities.

Research Topic and Significance

The PhD position focuses on developing next-generation immunotherapy strategies for kidney cancer by leveraging a multi-omics and translational immunology-driven approach. Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, yet significant challenges remain in improving its efficacy and broadening its applicability. This research aims to push beyond current state-of-the-art methods by integrating innovative methodologies from kidney cancer biology, T cell immunology, and immunotherapy. The project's interdisciplinary nature is vital in addressing the complexities of cancer immunobiology, with the ultimate goal of discovering novel therapeutic strategies that can be translated into clinical practice for the benefit of kidney cancer patients. The societal significance of this work is profound, as it has the potential to influence patient management and create substantial socio-economic impact.

Also See

Germany – Postdoctoral Fellowship in Immunotherapy at Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy
Belgium – PhD in Operations Research at Ghent University & KU Leuven
UAE – Postdoctoral Fellowship in Precision Medicine at Mohammed Bin Rashid University
Sweden – Postdoc in Molecular Neuroimmunology at Karolinska University Hospital
UAE – Research Assistant in Brain Organoids at Khalifa University

Project Details

This position is based within the Laboratory for Cell Stress & Immunity at KU Leuven, under the supervision of Prof. Abhishek D. Garg. The project is a collaborative effort involving the groups of Prof. Dr. Benoit Beuselinck, a clinician and oncologist specializing in kidney cancers, and Prof. Stefan Naulaerts, an expert in computational oncology. The research is situated at the intersection of immunobiology, bioinformatics, and translational immunotherapy, offering the recruited PhD student the opportunity to engage in state-of-the-art research and collaborate with leading experts in the field. The successful candidate will perform translational and multi-omics research, focusing on the discovery of innovative immunotherapies for kidney cancer. The project provides access to advanced infrastructures and the chance to interact with world-class investigators, as well as opportunities to participate in national and international conferences and collaborate with clinical partners at University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven).

Candidate Profile

The ideal applicant will possess the following qualifications and attributes:

– Hold an MD or MSc/Master's degree in medicine, biotechnology, biosciences, biomedicine, bioinformatics, or a related field from a recognized university.

– Demonstrated skills in cell culture, basic animal handling, in vitro experiments, analytical analyses, laboratory techniques, and data analysis/statistics.

– Solid knowledge of immunology, oncology, and/or cancer biology.

– Practical experience in immuno-oncology or bioinformatics is advantageous but not mandatory.

– Strong team player with excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

– Eagerness to perform experiments in immunology, omics-related bioinformatics, and in vivo tumor immunology and immunotherapy.

– Willingness to deliver presentations at seminars, symposiums, and conferences.

– Openness to visiting other laboratories (in Belgium or abroad) to learn new techniques.

– Motivation to co-supervise Master's students' thesis projects.

Application Process

KU Leuven provides a stimulating, inclusive, and international research environment, with a strong emphasis on diversity, equal opportunity, and social safety. The university encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Application Deadline:

Applications are considered on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

To apply and for further information, please visit the official KU Leuven job site:

Conclusion

This PhD position at KU Leuven offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in cancer immunology and immunotherapy, with the potential to make a meaningful impact on patient care and scientific advancement. If you are motivated to pursue a career at the intersection of translational research and clinical innovation, you are encouraged to apply. For more opportunities in your field, follow the links below.

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