Postdoctoral Researcher in Multimodal AI for Data-Driven Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy

ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY

Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programs grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.

RESEARCH PROJECT

You will work on an FWO-funded fundamental research project on the personalization cancer radiotherapy using multimodal data and computational methodologies. The project is embedded in an ongoing clinical trial at Ghent University Hospital and is supervised by a multidisciplinary team consisting of Prof. Brent van der Heyden, Prof. Valérie Fonteyne (radiation oncologist), and Dr. Evelien Bogaert (radiotherapy medical physics expert). The research is conducted in close collaboration with Prof. Ioulia Tzouvadaki (nanotechnology) and Prof. Mieke Adriaens (electrochemistry). You will also collaborate with UGent’s valorization officers and business developers on IP protection and economic valorization.

YOUR TASKS

• Design, implement, and validate AI-based multimodal data processing algorithms to support the personalization of radiotherapy, integrating imaging, clinical, and treatment data into predictive and decision-support models.
• Contribute to the development of a valorization pathway for biosensing and software solutions to facilitate clinical translation, including technology maturation, stakeholder engagement, and preparation of funding applications in collaboration with the PI.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• You hold a PhD (thesis-based) with multidisciplinary expertise in one or more of the following areas: multimodal big data processing, artificial intelligence, statistical analysis, radiotherapy, and/or predictive medicine.
• A strong interest in biosensing technologies, including the acquisition, integration, and interpretation of signals.
• Candidates in the final year of their PhD are also encouraged to apply, provided they will obtain their doctoral degree soon.
• You have an entrepreneurial mindset and are motivated to translate research innovations into clinical applications, valorization pathways (e.g. spin-off), or collaborative initiatives.
• You demonstrate English proficiency at a minimum C1 level (CEFR) or equivalent, evidenced by a recognised certificate or prior academic/professional experience in an English-speaking environment.
• You communicate clearly and confidently, including strong public speaking skills and the ability to convey enthusiasm for research.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

• We offer you a contract of definite duration for 22 months at 100% employment.
• Your contract will start on 1/04/2026 at the earliest.
• Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale PD1 to PD4
  Click here for more information about our salary scales.
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.

INTERESTED?

Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.

Your application must include the following documents:

• In the field ‘CV’: your CV and a transcript of your academic record (merged into one pdf file)
• In the field ‘Cover letter’: your application letter in pdf format, prepared without the use of generative AI
• In the field ‘Diploma’: a transcript of the required degree (if already in your possession). If you have a foreign degree in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages.
• In the field “other documents”:
  • A list of three references
  • Candidates are asked to submit a brief position piece outlining their vision on the role of multimodal AI in healthcare within the context of this project (max. 1 A4 page, max. 4 PowerPoint slides, or another concise format of comparable scope). Address one or both of the following:

1. Scientific and clinical vision: key opportunities for clinical impact, current scientific and technical challenges, or major pitfalls (e.g. validation, explainability, data integration, bias)

2. Clinical translation and valorization: barriers to implementation in real-world clinical practice, a potential pathway toward valorization (e.g. software-as-a-medical-device, biosensing integration, clinical decision support tool, spin-off strategy), or the first concrete steps you would take to move from research prototype to clinically usable solution in Flanders/Europe.

Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB.

As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, all candidates meeting the requirements are encouraged to apply for this position. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

The use of generative AI for the preparation of the application documents is discouraged.

The selection process will consist of an initial screening based on the submitted documents, followed by an additional round of (online) interviews by invitation.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Brent van der Heyden (pronano@UGent.be).

Important: do NOT send your application by email, but apply online.

Do you have a question regarding the online application process? Please read the FAQ or contact us via selecties@ugent.be.