Job description

The research team for Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, affiliated with Ghent University/Ghent University Hospital, has a vacancy available for a PhD student on the following research project: “Integration of genome, epigenome and transcriptome in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) for the identification of new biomarkers and biological targets“.

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare, aggressive type of childhood leukemia. Despite groundbreaking research into its origins, the disease mechanism of JMML has not yet been fully elucidated. It was recently shown that not only genes (DNA), but also other cellular mechanisms such as RNA play an important role in JMML. In this project proposal we want to investigate the interplay of genomic (DNA), transcriptomic (RNA) and epigenetic factors in cells from JMML patients. This integrated approach will provide new insights into the pathogenesis and course of the disease, as a result of which new therapeutic targets will be identified. These are urgently needed as bone marrow transplantation is still the standard treatment for JMML with poor survival rates, among others due to side effects and the risk of recurrence. In addition, for therapeutic targets, extensive molecular investigations will be performed to assess their function and role in JMML disease.

Job profile

• You have a Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences, Medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a comparable degree.
• You have a strong interest in research, bioinformatics and are highly motivated to complete a PhD within a period of 4 years.
• You have excellent study results.
• You have a very good knowledge of English, both written and spoken.
• You can work autonomously as well as function well in a team.
• You are stress-resistant and flexible.
• You have a strong organizational nature.
• Candidates must be in possession of a Laboratory Animal Science certificate or be prepared to obtain this certificate in the short term.
• Candidates have a basic knowledge of statistics and are willing to delve into bioinformatics.

How to apply

If you are interested, please send the requested documents to dr. Sylvie De Buck (sylvie.debuck@ugent.be) before February 15, 2023, 23:59.
Necessary documents (in 1 pdf):

• CV
• Short letter of motivation (1 page)
• A copy of your study results
• For questions, contact Dr. Matthias Hofmans and/or Prof. dr. Tim Lammens via e-mail (Mattias.Hofmans@UGent.be; Tim.Lammens@ugent.be).