项目介绍

2024年3月27日

Job description

The Laboratory for Integrative Metabolomics (LIMET) at Ghent University, part of the Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology, and Public Health (DI04), has a full-time position (1+3 years) available for a doctoral student within the framework of the MeMoSA research project. This project is funded by the European Research Council (ERC).

The global and increasing prevalence of pediatric obesity constitutes a serious public health issue. This pandemic is the result of changes in lifestyle, dietary patterns, and physical activity. Due to the multifactorial nature of the condition, treatment is also complicated, as each patient requires a unique approach. Additionally, obesity has significant health consequences, with increased risks of serious conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain forms of cancer, as well as psychological and social implications for the child. Metabolomics plays an important role in obesity research, particularly in unraveling complex metabolic processes in the body. This scientific approach enables researchers to study changes in small molecules, known as metabolites, using advanced analytical techniques including mass spectrometry. By employing metabolomics, we can gain insight into metabolic changes in children with overweight or obesity. This not only aids in understanding the individual underlying mechanisms of obesity but also in identifying biomarkers that can help guide targeted interventions.

Your practical research assignment involves conducting scientific research in preparation for a doctorate within the MeMoSA project. Practical research tasks include:

• Developing and optimizing UHPLC-HRMS methods
• Conducting metabolomics analyses on stool and saliva samples
• Processing metabolomics data using multivariate statistics and machine learning
• Conducting an intervention study in adolescents with obesity
• Writing up research results in leading scientific journals
• Presenting your research at national and international symposia

Job profile

• Master’s degree in health sciences (pharmaceutical or biomedical sciences, (veterinary) medicine, or equivalent) or bioscience engineering by 1 August 2024.
• Strong motivation for high-quality scientific research with the aim of obtaining a doctorate.
• Effective functioning in an (international) team, as well as working and planning independently.
• Vivid interest in metabolomics, mass spectrometry, and biomedical research.
• Good analytical and statistical skills. You have experience with the following software (R and/or Python) and/or are willing to further sharpen your skills.
• Fluent command of scientific English, both orally and in writing.
• Basic knowledge of (analytical) chemistry and biology, with a general interest in life sciences, and willingness to expand knowledge as needed.

How to apply

Applications, including a motivation letter and detailed Curriculum Vitae (including study results), should be submitted to Prof. Lynn Vanhaecke (limet@ugent.be) by 31/05/2024. More information about the vacancy can be obtained via the above email address or by phone (09/2647457). After a pre-selection based on the CV, selected candidates will be invited for an interview. Full-time contract starting preferably between 1 August and 1 October 2024 (to be discussed).