Download PhD student

The laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology (Ghent University) and the Flanders
Marine Institute (VLIZ) are looking for a
PhD student
Job description
This research is part of the ESFRI-LIFEWATCH (Flemish marine observatory and its data generation)
project and aims to develop and apply molecular tools based on environmental DNA (eDNA) to
assess the influence of anthropogenic stressors on the biodiversity in the North Sea. This research
aims to develop and validate a new method for biomonitoring of marine organisms in the Belgian
coastal zone. The PhD student will be responsible for the development, optimisation and application
of the eDNA method for several key species. Besides the use of this method to map biodiversity in
the North Sea we also want to use it as an “ecotoxicology tool”. The effect of anthropogenic
disturbance on the occurrence, abundance and migration of marine species will be investigated. To
this end, habitat suitability models will be coupled to water quality models. This project will run in
cooperation with the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ).
Profile description
We are looking for a motivated candidate that has:
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A Master degree (or equivalent) in Bioscience-engineering, Biological sciences or
Biotechnology
A high interest in scientific research and specifically in molecular research
Strong communicative and organisational skills
Start of the contract: September 1, 2014
How to apply?
The applications need to be accompanied by a motivation letter and CV and need to be e-mailed the
latest on July 4, 2014 to Prof. Colin Janssen ([email protected]). More information on the
scientific content of the project can be obtained from Dr. Jana Asselman ([email protected])
or Dr. Pieter Boets ([email protected]). The solicitations will be held from 8-10 July 2014. URLs:
www.milieutox.ugent.be, www.vliz.be.