Postdoctoral researcher cardiovascular disease

Department: Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Regime Full-time

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The Physiopharmacology Research group  affiliated with the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences and the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences has the following full-time (100%) vacancy: postdoctoral scientist in the field of pharmacology – atherosclerosis research 

Job description

Research

• You will carry out high-quality academic research in the field of atherosclerosis, more specifically on mast cells as effectors in cardiovascular disease.
• Background research topic: In the framework of a European research project (ERA.Net), we aim to elucidate how mast cells in atherosclerosis contribute to microvessel instability and haemorrhage, and develop therapeutic strategies that inhibit mast cell-induced vascular leakage to prevent intra-plaque haemorrhage and subsequent acute cardiovascular syndromes.
• Research topic for this postdoc position: To establish a causal role between mast cells, atherosclerosis, intra-plaque angiogenesis and haemorrhage, you will perform mast cell studies in a unique in-house developed mouse model of advanced atherosclerosis and in a cross-bred model. In addition to standard techniques in atherosclerosis research, you will use advanced techniques, including ultra-high-frequency ultrasound with photoacoustic imaging.
• Besides experimental research, you will regularly write project reports for your supervisor, write scientific papers and support grant writing. 

Profile

• You hold a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Veterinary Sciences, Medical Sciences (or equivalent in life sciences) or you will have obtained it by the time you start work.
• You hold a FELASA B or C certificate for laboratory animal work.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies . You have relevant research experience in the field of  physiology /pharmacology / vascular biology / atherosclerosis, and laboratory animal research. 
• You are able to carry out your work and achieve your objectives with a high degree of independence.
• You co-supervise PhD students.
• You are fluent in academic English (speaking and writing).
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.

What we offer

• We offer an appointment as a postdoctoral researcher for a period of three years (evaluation after 1st  year).
• Your gross monthly salary is calculated according to the pay scale  for a principal research fellow (pay scales for Contract Research Staff - BAP).
• The planned start date is 1 April 2024 or as soon as possible after that date.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Click here  to find out more about working at the University of Antwerp and the related benefits.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including Monday 12 February 2024 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a motivation letter with contact details of two referees
  • your academic CV
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure. Please note the following date in your calendar: Wednesday 14 February 2024 from 9 am Brussels time (selection interviews).
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions  or send an email to [email protected] . If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Prof Guido De Meyer, [email protected]  .

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.