Postdoctoral scholarship holder in the field of small molecule radioligands for theranostic applications

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Department: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Regime Full-time

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The Center for Radiopharmaceuticals Antwerp (CREANT), part of Molecular Imaging and Radiology (MIRA) of the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, is looking for a full-time (100%) postdoctoral scholarship holder in the field of small molecule radioligands for theranostic applications.

Position

  • You will conduct research activities within the Radiopharmacy (CREANT) department and the Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), focusing on the radiolabelling and preclinical evaluation of small molecule-based radioligands targeting tumor-associated proteases.
  • Research background: The Radiopharmacy group has extensive expertise in the development of radiolabelled ligands for proteases implicated in human diseases, with applications in molecular imaging techniques such as PET and SPECT, as well as in targeted radionuclide therapy. Within this project we investigate optimized small molecule-based ligands targeting proline selective proteases. Synthetic lead optimisation is performed in collaboration with the Medicinal Chemistry Group, and target affinity and selectivity of the molecules are assessed in collaboration with the Medical Biochemistry Group at the University of Antwerp. The most promising ligands will be radiolabelled and evaluated in animal models of cancer and fibrosis.
  • Research topic for this postdoc position: Your primary responsibilities will include: 1) optimization and automation of radiochemistry for the preparation of theranostic pair radioligands for diagnostic PET imaging and radionuclide therapy; and 2) support the preclinical assessment of radioligands’ imaging and therapeutic potential in animal models of disease.
  • You will write project reports and scientific papers related to the research project.

Profile

  • You hold a doctoral degree (PhD) in Radiopharmacy, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field from a non-Belgian institution.
  • Extensive knowledge in radiochemistry and radiotracer development is required.
  • You have excellent writing and communication skills; excellent command of written and spoken English is mandatory.
  • You are willing to supervise master and/or PhD students who are working on the same research topic.
  • Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
  • You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.

What we offer

  • We offer a full-time appointment as a postdoctoral scholarship holder for a period of one year. This period can be extended after positive evaluation.
  • The planned start date is April 15, 2025 (or as soon as possible after that date).
  • Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amountsfor postdoctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP)
  • You will receive ecocheques, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
  • You will do your work in the Laboratories of Radiopharmacy and MICA at campus Drie Eiken of the University of Antwerp in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
  • Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

How to apply

  • You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including February 25, 2025 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button, complete the online application form and be sure to include the following attachments: a motivation letter, your academic CV.
  • A selection committee will review all the applications, and a pre-selection will be made from amongst the submitted applications. The pre-selected candidates will be invited for an online interview taking place on February 27, 2025 in the afternoon.
  • If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Prof. Filipe Elvas (filipe.elvas@uantwerpen.be).

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.

 

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