Postdoctoral Position in Biomedical Sciences
University of Antwerp
Belgium

Postdoctoral Position in Biomedical Sciences

Department: Department of Biomedical Sciences
Regime Full-time

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The lab of Prof. Tommas Ellender at the Department of Biomedical Sciences of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinarian Sciences has a vacancy for a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist with a molecular biology background and research experience in neurodevelopment and/or neuroimmunology. The applicant should be passionate about driving and performing research and associated laboratory tasks and be able to work independently.

Postdoctoral research scientist (full-time, 100%)

Position

We are seeking an enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher to join the lab on an exciting project funded by a FWO Project Grant. The overarching goals of the project are to elucidate how neuronal embryonic progenitor origin shapes the integration of neurons within the adult basal ganglia and associated structures and how perturbations at the level of embryonic progenitors can impact the development and function of these neuronal circuits (see e.g. 1,2). To investigate this, we will use a combination of techniques including in utero electroporation, electrophysiology, RNAseq and proteomic approaches and well as behavioural analysis.

It is also expected you can assist with other ongoing research or activities of the group and contribute to the supervision of PhD students. Opportunities exist also to help with teaching activities, and we will support you with personal grant applications for FWO and/or MSCA funding and you can assist with the preparation of grant applications of the lab.

1. van Heusden, F., et al. Diversity in striatal synaptic circuits arises from distinct embryonic progenitor pools in the ventral telencephalon. Cell reports 35, 109041 (2021).

2. Ellender, T.J., et al. Embryonic progenitor pools generate diversity in fine-scale excitatory cortical subnetworks. Nature communications 10, 5224 (2019).

Profile

• We are looking for a talented and highly motivated junior or senior postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in neurodevelopment and/or neuroimmunology.
• You hold a PhD in biology, biomedical sciences, neurosciences, immunology or related disciplines (or you will have obtained it by the time you start work).
• Experienced in working with mouse models (FELASA B or C required)
• Solid publication record including several first-author publications in the field of neuroscience and/or immunology.
• Experience with flow cytometry and/or transcriptomics or other omics technologies is a plus.
• Creative, highly motivated, independent, team player.

What we offer

• We offer a full-time postdoctoral position in the “Neuronal Circuit Research” group led bydr. Tommas Ellender initially for one year with the possibility for renewal up to 3 years.
• You will be encouraged to apply for personal fellowships
• The possibility to independently lead the research project, but with sufficient guidance and mentoring tailored to your individual career goals.
• Access to state-of-the-art technologies and infrastructure.
• A friendly, dynamic, and scientifically stimulating working environment at Campus Drie Eiken and neighbouring VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology.
• Various high level training opportunities to broaden your expertise and skills including the UAntwerpen Talent Center with dedicated support for postdoctoral researchers.
• A strong and dynamic network of international collaborators.
• The planned start date is September 1st 2023 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy up to and including 29th of June 2023 (by midnight Brussels time) through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform. Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a detailed CV containing a full list of publications and brief summary of past research
  • a letter of motivation describing your interests
  • contact details of one or two referees
• The selection committee will review all 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. We kindly ask you to already take note of the week for interviews: Week of 10th of July
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the jobitself, please contact prof. dr. Tommas Ellender, PI Neuronal Circuit Research lab, tommas.ellender@uantwerpen.be, Tel: +32 (0)3 265 36 12.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.