PhD Position: Cognitive Functioning after Cancer – Evaluation of a 12‑Week Integrative Program

The Translational MRI research group (Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven/UZ Leuven), led by Prof. Stefan Sunaert, specializes in advanced structural and functional brain imaging. The group has a strong international reputation and collaborates closely with clinical and academic partners both within Belgium and internationally.

Project

Increasing numbers of people survive cancer, yet a substantial proportion experience persistent cognitive difficulties, including problems with memory, attention and executive functioning (commonly referred to as cancer-related cognitive impairment or “chemo brain”). These difficulties can significantly impact daily functioning, return to work and quality of life.

In this PhD project, we will investigate the effectiveness of a 12-week integrative lifestyle intervention aimed at improving cognitive functioning after cancer, as well as the underlying biological and neural mechanisms.

In a first phase, the PhD candidate will systematically review the scientific literature on comparable interventions. Based on these insights, the 12-week program will be further optimized and piloted.

Subsequently, the PhD candidate will execute and coordinate the clinical intervention study, in which participants will be assessed before and after the intervention using neuropsychological testing, questionnaires, behavioural and biomarker analyses, advanced MRI imaging.

The PhD candidate will be responsible for participant recruitment and follow-up, data collection, neuroimaging analysis, statistical processing and scientific reporting.

The project is embedded in a multidisciplinary collaboration between the Translational MRI research group, clinical partners at UZ Leuven and researchers from behavioural sciences, rehabilitation and clinical disciplines.

Profile

We are looking for a motivated and talented candidate who holds a Master’s degree and demonstrates:

• a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Psychology, Movement Sciences, Bioengineering or a related field
• excellent academic performance
• strong interest in neuroscience and medical imaging
• strong interest in lifestyle interventions and translational research
• strong analytical skills and a critical, curious mindset
• a proactive and independent working attitude, with initiative and problem-solving skills
• excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage complex projects
• a collaborative and team-oriented mindset, with flexibility
• excellent communication skills in English, both orally and in academic writing
• native-level proficiency in Dutch

The following qualifications are considered an asset:

• training in medical laboratory techniques
• experience with clinical or intervention studies
• knowledge of lifestyle interventions
• experience with MRI or neuroimaging analysis
• knowledge of statistical analysis methods

Offer

We offer a full-time PhD position in an innovative and multidisciplinary research environment.

You will be part of the Translational MRI research group and collaborate with clinicians, psychologists and neuroscientists. The position provides the opportunity to develop expertise in clinical research, neuropsychology and advanced brain imaging.

The initial appointment is for one year. Further funding for continuation of the PhD will be actively sought.

Interested?

For more information please contact dr. Sabine Deprez, mail: [email protected].

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