Ghent University
3 months ago
PhD Student Position in Brassinosteroid Hormone Research Ghent University in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Cell Biology
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Aug 24, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
Ghent University
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About this position
The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB) at Ghent University is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD student position in the field of brassinosteroid hormone research. The PSB is a world-leading plant science institute located in Ghent, Belgium, renowned for its integration of genetics, cell biology, genomics, and bio-computing to unravel plant biological processes and translate this knowledge into societal value. The Jenny Russinova lab specializes in brassinosteroid hormone research, focusing on the regulation of cell division and differentiation in plants.
This PhD project aims to investigate how hormonal signals are integrated and coordinated to control the plant cell cycle machinery. The research will utilize advanced technologies such as live-cell imaging, phosphoproteomics, and metabolite profiling to explore phytohormonal regulation at the cellular level. The project leverages single-cell genomics and live-cell imaging to observe dynamic fluctuations in brassinosteroid signalling throughout different stages of the cell cycle, as recently published in Cell (Vukašinović and Hsu et al., 2025).
Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology, Plant Physiology, Biology, Molecular Biology, Physiology, or a related discipline. Fluency in English is required. Experience with Arabidopsis, plant development, and plant hormone biology is desirable but not mandatory. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, meticulous, proactive, independent, and enthusiastic about research, with strong interpersonal communication and time-management skills.
The position offers a stimulating and supportive international research environment, access to state-of-the-art tools and infrastructure within VIB, and various training opportunities to broaden expertise and skills. The working climate emphasizes trust, international collaboration, and commitment.
To apply, candidates must use the online VIB application tool and submit a detailed CV, a one-page summary of past research activities, a motivation letter, and contact details for two to three referees. Applications by email will not be considered. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
For more information about the PSB and the Russinova lab, visit www.psb.ugent.be and www.russinovalab.be. The application portal is available at https://jobs.vib.be/apply/133879.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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