2 ERC-funded postdoctoral positions focusing on therapeutic brain delivery

Join the Barriers in Inflammation lab led by Roosmarijn Vandenbroucke at the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research (https://vandenbrouckelab.sites.vib.be ) for exciting postdoctoral opportunities! Our team of approximately 20 researchers is dedicated to unravelling the underlying causes of CNS disorders, identifying therapeutic targets and assessing their potential for intervention.

We're offering two postdoctoral positions funded by an ERC project aimed at revolutionizing therapeutic delivery into the brain via the blood-CSF barrier. Our pioneering research harnesses the power of single-domain antibodies, also known as nanobodies or VHHs, as a Trojan horse for targeted brain delivery. Our goal is to explore the vast potential of VHHs in effectively transporting diverse cargos -ranging from proteins to nucleic acids and nanoparticles- across the blood-CSF barrier, offering promising solutions for a myriad of neurological disorders. We previously identified a promising candidate that requires further optimization and validation and in addition, we aim to discover novel VHHs capable of crossing the blood-CSF barrier and delivering therapeutic cargoes to the brain.

You will become an integral part of a subteam, collaborating with an experienced lab technician and a dedicated PhD student whose project focuses on in vitro screening methods, using a.o. organoids. We are looking for individuals with expertise in the following specific profiles to enhance and complement the team:

Profile 1

Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical sciences or related fields.

Demonstrated expertise in:

Profile 2

Ph.D. in Molecular biology or related fields.

Demonstrated expertise in:

• In vitro and/or in vivo phage display;
• Cloning, engineering, expression, purification and characterization of VHHs.

We invite applications from dynamic individuals with a strong drive for innovation and motivation. Ideal candidates will possess critical thinking abilities, excellent oral and written communication skills in English, and a collaborative mindset. Additionally, they should demonstrate the capacity to independently plan and execute research with precision. A keen interest in drug delivery, nanobodies, neuroinflammation, and/or brain barriers is essential, accompanied by hands-on experience in molecular biology and/or biochemistry techniques. Proficiency in advanced microscopy, in vitro cell culture and organoid-based brain barrier models and/or experience with in vivo mouse experiments (Felasa C) will be considered advantageous. If you are passionate about pioneering research at the intersection of neuroinflammation and therapeutic innovation, we encourage you to submit your application.

Join us to undertake a highly innovative project that combines cutting-edge approaches including state-of-the-art imaging techniques, pluripotent stem cell models, in vivo mouse models of neurological disorders, drug (brain) delivery and nanobody development.

• A state-of-the-art laboratory environment.
• A versatile and challenging academic position with very diverse contacts in a world-class research environment operating at an international level, and various opportunities to broaden your expertise.
• Opportunities to train in many cutting-edge technologies.
• Training courses in academic, technical, and career skills.
• A competitive salary and a range of benefits including a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers.
• An initial 1-year contract, which can be extended up to 5 years.

Starting Date: as soon as possible.

Interested candidates can apply through the VIB online application tool.

A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:

• a 1-page summary of your motivation for the position, your research experiences and future goals
• a detailed CV including publication list
• contact information of 2-3 references

The first review of applications will start immediately. A shortlist of applicants will be selected and invited for interviews. The position remains open until a suitable candidate is found.

For further information and questions, please send an email to Roosmarijn Vandenbroucke ([email protected] ).