Postdoctoral research scientist

Postdoctoral research scientist Highthroughput neuroimmune organoid platform for fundamental and translational dementia research

Project description

The VIBUAntwerp Center of Molecular Neurology is recruiting a postdoctoral research scientist (fulltime 100%) in the frame of the PostDoc Challenge program of the University of Antwerp. The envisaged project presents a methodological challenge to establish neuroimmune organoid models for application in the context of various neurodegenerative diseases.

Over the last decade organoids emerged as an attractive middle ground between 2D cell cultures which do not fully recapitulate the 3D environment and animal models which pose technical and ethical limits. In particular cerebral organoids are emerging as the next step in patientderived in vitro models for both neurodevelopmental as well as neurodegenerative diseases. However cerebral organoids have mostly been based on neuronal cells alone while evidence increases that the role of nonneuronal types (microglia astrocytes endothelial cells) is critical in these conditions. Integration of these cell types will more closely mimic the in vivo cellular environment in health and disease and constitutes the major challenge of this project. The established neuroimmune organoid technology will find a wide range of applications as models for studying fundamental mechanisms underlying cellular biology and genetic pathophysiology as well as for efficient drug screening. The recruited postdoc would lead on this challenge and would be offered an opportunity to shape the application scope of the developed technology to advance the science of all research groups at the Center.

The VIBUAntwerp Center is part of VIB a Life Sciences institute and the University of Antwerp with colleagueresearchers in cancer biotechnology structural biology immunology amongst others and an extensive set of core facilities and opportunities for technology transfer. The VIBUAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology has 6 PIs and hosts internationally recognized leaders in the field of Neurogenetics and Neuroinflammation. Current research groups address a broad set of questions related to neurodegenerative diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system with an emphasis on understanding genetic aetiology and developing diagnostics and treatment methods for these diseases. Approaches range from human genetics and genomics to computational and systems biology while models include yeast fly mouse and pluripotent human cell systems. Research groups have access to stateoftheart research and topnotch support core facilities and attract talented international scientists from across the world.

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic forwardthinking European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important serviceproviding role in society. We are one of the largest most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries we are helping to build tomorrows world every day. Through top scientific research we push back boundaries and set a course for the future a future that you can help to shape.

Profile

• We are looking for a talented and highly motivated junior or senior postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in highimpact technology development and application in fundamental and translational research in neurodegenerative disease field.
• You hold a PhD in genetics immunology neuroscience or related disciplines (or you will have obtained it by the time you start work).
• Extensive expertise in working with (multicellular) organoid cultures
• Experience with singlecell data analysis is a plus
• Scientific integrity and excellence illustrated by a strong publication track record
• Excellent communication and writing skills in English

We offer

• We offer a fulltime contract as a postdoctoral researcher or as a postdoctoral scholarship holder for at least one year. The successful candidate is encouraged and guided in obtaining a personal fellowship (MarieCurie HFSP EMBO or national funding organizations)
• A versatile and challenging job in a vibrant worldclass research environment operating at an international level
• Access to stateoftheart infrastructure and core computing and experimental facilities
• Dedicated training programs available through VIB and UAntwerp to broaden your expertise and enhance your skill set
• A strong and dynamic network of international collaborators
• Competitive salary and benefits. You will receive ecocheques an Internetconnectivity allowance a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• The planned start date is October 1st 2024 or as soon as possible.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.

How to apply

• You can apply for this vacancy through the online job application platform. Deadline to apply is June 30th at midnight (Brussels time). Click on apply complete the online application form and dont forget to include the following document(s):
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
  • contact details of two referees
• The selection committee will review all of the applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision has been made we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the job itself please contact