Research Fellow Helminthology

The Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp aims at the advancement and spread of science that contributes to infectious disease medicine and to public health globally with focus on low- and middle income countries, inclusive of their global dimensions. ITM conducts scientific research, delivers advanced education and provides medical, scientific and societal expert services. The ITM is an open and international campus where staff, students and researchers work on international health challenges.

The unit of Helminthology aims to apply multiple -omics and various molecular/reverse genetics techniques to better understand neglected round- and flatworm diseases, with interests spanning vector-parasite and host-parasite interactions (including both fundamental and applied research).

We are particularly interested in recruiting candidates with established skillsets/expertise in either next generation sequencing, immunopeptidome analyses and/or parasite-vector biology. We hope to utilise these skillsets to inform improved parasite diagnostics, vaccine candidature and disease monitoring. 

Assignment:

• You will be responsible for conducting one or more lines of research within the Unit’s research programme in liaison with other team members
• You will contribute to nematode parasite and insect vector culture
• You will conduct molecular biology, mass spectrometry (immunopeptidomics) and cell biology analyses
• You will write high quality publications for scientific journals
• You will present research results at different levels and for different audiences
• You will contribute to the scientific discussion and training and supervising Master and PhD students
• You will contribute to grant/fellowship applications where appropriate
• You will to contribute to the organisation of the lab to improve experimental workflows and efficiency 

Profile:

• You hold a PhD in Parasitology, Molecular biology, Biochemistry, medicine or a related field
• You have expertise in parasite/tissue culture, molecular biology, reverse genetics and/or biochemistry
• You have high integrity and an interest in how host-parasite and vector-parasite interactions contribute to parasite survival and transmission
• You show a high level of enthusiasm, motivation, and are scientifically curious
• You have excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills in English
• Though not essential, you preferably have previous experience in entomology/vector biology and rodent models
• Though not essential, you are preferably willing to travel abroad as part of collaborative programmes to participate in laboratory, field and teaching activities where appropriate 

Offer:

The Institute of Tropical Medicine is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive institute. We strive for excellence and relevance, integrity, sustainability and persistence and fairness. Your assignment contributes to the socially relevant mission of the ITM. We value human dignity and diversity, academic creativity and a critical spirit, solidarity and cooperation, and the well-being of employees, students, patients and clients.

We offer you: 

• A full-time position with a 1-year contract (which is potentially renewable), within a new and dynamic research unit. Starting date: as soon as possible.
• A collegial working environment with attention to work-life balance and individual growth and development and opportunities for continuous training and technical development.  
• A workplace with state of the art facilities within the centre of the vibrant city of Antwerp, easily accessible by public transport.
• A salary set according to the pay scales of ITM and to your work experience, with some supplementary benefits, such as private pension scheme and meal voucher subscription.  

Interested?

Apply before June 5^th, 2025

For more information, please contact HR (recruitment@itg.be).

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