PhD position: Polycystic ovary syndrome and minipuberty

Organisation/Company KU LEUVEN Research Field Medical sciences » Medicine Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 17 Mar 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Country Belgium Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number BAP-2026-56 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

The goal of the project is to further unravel the pathophysiological mechanisms, prediction and treatment options of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is the most common endocrinopathy affecting reproductive‑aged women, which impacts across the lifespan from adolescence to post‑menopause. Clinical presentation is heterogeneous, with reproductive (ovulatory dysfunction with irregular menstrual periods and infertility, hyperandrogenism), metabolic (obesity, insulin resistance and abnormal lipid levels) and psychological features.

Its pathogenesis is complex and still incompletely understood, but emerging evidence suggests that underlying biological mechanisms are not limited to reproductive age. Through a clinical study, investigating the mini puberty of neonates at risk for the development of PCOS, as well as a PCOS mouse model, we aim to investigate the mini puberty as a window of opportunity in the prediction and treatment of PCOS.

• We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic, critical, and creative person with a master degree or equivalent in a relevant field, such as Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Bioscience Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biology (or similar degree)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Enjoy working both independently and in a team
• Fluency in English
• Fluency in Dutch is a plus because of possible patient contacts
• You will work in a translational multidisciplinary research team that is internationally recognized as the expert in research integrating endocrinology and metabolism
• You will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and will be registered in a specific program of the doctoral school

For more information please contact Prof. dr. An Jacobs, tel.: , mail: