Department: Translational Neurosciences (Department of Ophthalmology)
Faculty: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Institution: University of Antwerp
Employment Type: Full-time
Position: Doctoral Scholarship Holder

About the University

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking university. We offer innovative academic education to more than 20,000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research, and play an important service-providing role in society.

We are one of the largest, most international, and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6,000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future—a future that you can help to shape.

The Department of Ophthalmology in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) Doctoral Scholarship Holder in the field of Medicine.

Position

You will:

• Actively work at the Visual Optics Lab Antwerp (VOLANTIS) on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of Optometry and Ophthalmology.
• Work on a research project involving the development of a mathematical model of human eye growth as a dynamic system. This project is a collaborative effort with other laboratories, enabling the model to incorporate the optical, mechanical, and retinal aspects of the eye.
• Draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisor(s), and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.
• Conduct research efficiently and to an appropriate standard, possibly including research abroad, and compete for funding for general or specific research costs.
• Report research progress to your supervisor(s) and committees, and present your work at scientific conferences.
• Publicly defend your PhD thesis and aim to publish your research in the scientific press.
• Make scientific contributions to existing research projects and research lines beyond your own doctoral project.
• Apply for internal and external predoctoral funding.

Profile

You:

• Hold a Master's degree in Physics, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Can demonstrate excellent academic results.
• Have experience with MATLAB and dynamic systems.
• Experience in Optometry, Neuroscience, and/or Structural Engineering is recommended.
• Have a good command of English, both written and spoken.
• Possess research qualities that align with the faculty and university research policies.
• Act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity, and cooperation.

What We Offer

• A doctoral scholarship for one year, extendable through competitive external funding that you will be expected to apply for.
• Opportunities to participate in academic activities related to your research.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development through training and education.
• Planned start date: 1 November 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
• A monthly doctoral scholarship according to the University's doctoral scholarship salary scales.
• Ecocheques.
• Internet connectivity allowance.
• Bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• Access to a broad range of doctoral courses and educational credits through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
• A dynamic and stimulating research environment at Campus Drie Eiken.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the University of Antwerp's online application platform no later than 31 August 2026 (midnight Brussels time).

Your application must include:

• Motivation letter.
• Academic CV.

The selection committee will review all applications shortly after the application deadline. Candidates who remain eligible after the pre-selection will be informed about the next stages of the selection procedure.

Contact Information

For questions about the online application:

• Email: jobs@uantwerpen.be

For questions about the position:

• Prof. Dr. Jos Rozema
• Email: jos.rozema@uantwerpen.be

Equal Opportunity

The University of Antwerp has received the European Commission's HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy.

The University is a sustainable, family-friendly organisation that invests in the professional growth of its employees. It values diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or age, and encourages applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and characteristics.

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