PhD Studentships in Human Genetics, University of Antwerp, Belgium

The University of Antwerp is a knowledge centre with 3.600 co-workers that performs ground-breaking and innovative research of international standing. The university takes special care to ensure optimum support and supervision of students, and pays constant attention to educational innovation. The university is an autonomous pluralistic institution that is committed to the enhancement of an open, democratic and multicultural society, and it pursues an equal opportunities policy.

The research group into Hereditary Hearing Impairment at the University of Antwerp (Department of Biomedical Sciences of the Faculty Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences) is recruiting a full time vacancy (m/f) of:

Highly motivated PhD student with a strong interest in human genetics

Research Project
The research topic of our lab is the elucidation of molecular mechanisms contributing to hereditary forms of hearing impairment.

Over the past years, our lab has identified several genes involved in hereditary hearing impairment (HHI). This includes monogenic forms of HHI, due to one single gene defect, as well as complex forms that are caused by an interplay between genes and environment. However, it remains unknown how these underlying gene defects ultimately lead to hearing impairment. Functional characterization of the identified genes will shed more light on the functional link between gene defect and hearing loss.

Profile and requirements
-Masters degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Bio-engineer (or any related field)

-Excellent study results (top 5%)

-Good English language skills

We offer
An initial 1-year contract, possibly extendable with 4 years. During the first year, a grant proposal has to be completed. Four to five years of research will result in a PhD in Biomedical Sciences.

Start date: January 1, 2010

To apply
Before September 1, 2009 , complete the mandatory application form (in attachments your curriculum vitae + a one page letter in which you explain your interest in the position and in the field of research)

More information about the fellowship can be obtained by

Prof. Dr. Guy Van Camp
Email: guy.vancamp[ at ]ua.ac.be
Phone +32 3 2759762

dr. Erik Fransen

Email: erik.fransen[ at ]ua.ac.be
Phone +32 3 2759757

Universiteit Antwerpen
Prins Boudewijnlaan 43
B-2650 Edegem
Belgium