Cell metabolism in skeletal development and disorders

(ref. BAP-2021-814)

Laatst aangepast : 26/11/2021

The laboratory of professor Geert Carmeliet investigates the contribution of cell metabolism of different skeletal cell types to bone development, homeostasis, diseases and regeneration. The lab is looking for a dynamic, highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the team. Our recent work shows that metabolism of skeletal cells regulates bone development and is crucial in preventing osteoporosis and promoting bone regeneration (Stegen S., Cell Metab 2016; Stegen S., Nature 2019; van Gastel N., Nature 2020; Stegen S., Dev Cell 2020). Moreover, these studies reveal that targeting skeletal cell metabolism could be a possible therapeutic strategy to improve bone regeneration and to treat skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. In addition, tumor cell metabolism seems to contribute to bone metastasis. The current aim of the lab is to characterize in-depth the metabolic regulation of different skeletal cell types. We combine advanced metabolic and transcriptomic analyses with state-of-the-art cell biological and molecular assays. The importance of the identified metabolic pathways will be validated by genetic and pharmacological approaches in cell cultures and in preclinical bone pathology models in mice.

Responsibilities

You will work independently on your research project, but in close collaboration with other team members using in vitro approaches, in vivo mouse models and innovative and state-of-the-art technologies.

You will characterize the metabolic profile of certain skeletal cell types, investigate its importance for skeletal homeostasis and its contribution to disease states and initiate possible translation.

Profile

• You have a PhD in biomedical sciences or bioengineering with focus on metabolism / skeletal tissue / regenerative medicine or related fields
• You are skilled in molecular and cellular biology methods, biochemistry and cell culture. Knowledge of cell metabolism is a plus, but is not required
• You are interested in working in a multidisciplinary environment, consisting of experts in biomedicine and engineering
• You have a passion for science and are motivated to work on a highly innovative project in an open and dynamic team
• You have good social and communicative skills and a solid knowledge of English
• You have a proven publication record in international peer-reviewed journals

Offer

• A full-time postdoc position in a dynamic team
  
• The opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment on exciting high impact projects
• Access to state-of-the-art technologies and infrastructure
• A dynamic working environment in which quality, professionalism and team spirit are highly valued
• Excellent training conditions with a team of experts

Interested?

For more information, please contact prof. dr. Geert Carmeliet, tel.: +32 16 33 07 31, mail: [email protected].

Your application file should contain a complete CV, motivation letter, list of publications, summary of past research and contact information or reference letter of 2 or 3 referees.

The KU Leuven is very international, close to Brussels, at the heart of Europe.

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].