PhD researcher to study histone modifications in joint health and osteoarthritis

1 May 2024
Job Information

Organisation/Company

KU Leuven

Research Field

Medical sciences » Medicine

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country

Belgium

Application Deadline

1 Jun 2024 - 00:00 (UTC)

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Full-time

Hours Per Week

38 hours/week

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by an EU programme

Reference Number

BAP-2024-249

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

The complex relationship between epigenetic histone modifications and osteoarthritis (OA) calls for a deeper understanding of histone modifications in healthy and OA-afflicted cartilage. Previous work form our team highlight the key role of histone methyltransferase DOT1L as modulator of Wnt signaling in the disease. However, despite these insights, the precise role of other histone modifications and their interactions in the pathological process from a healthy towards an osteoarthritic joint remain elusive. By performing extensive screens and introducing state-of-the-art technologies such as EpiTOF we identify novel epigenetic factors with likely roles in the disease process. Understanding the mechanisms associated with these histone modifications could unveil novel therapeutic targets, ultimately alleviating OA burden and enhancing patient outcomes.

Requirements

Research Field

Biological sciences

Education Level

Master Degree or equivalent

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent

Research Field

Biological sciences

Years of Research Experience

1 - 4

Additional Information
Benefits

• A full-time PhD research contract for one year with the possibility to extend (at least) 3 more years thereafter. The position is immediately available. You are stimulated to apply for a predoctoral fellowship.
• The opportunity to work on a high impact, beyond state-of-the-art project with experienced mentors in a successful team. 
• We support PhD students with excellent (daily) guidance and training, and provide the opportunity to participate in (inter)national collaborations and conferences.
• A stimulating international, multidisciplinary and dynamic research environment where quality, professionalism and collaborative team spirit are encouraged.

Eligibility criteria

• You have an excellent academic record and hold a Master's degree in any area of biology or biomedical sciences. Candidates who have not yet completed their master's thesis at the time of this application are encouraged to apply.
• Previous laboratory hands-on experience with cell culture and biochemical assays is desired, but not essential. Experience with laboratory animals  and holding a Felasa B certificate is also a plus.
• You are a proactive, ambitious, dynamic person and show spirit for initiative and problem-solving. You take great care and precision in your work, and are able to work independently but also as part of a team.
• You have excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Selection process

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Rik Lories, tel.: +32 16 37 26 73, mail: [email protected] or Prof. dr. Silvia Monteagudo, tel.: +32 16 37 27 34, mail: [email protected] send a copy of your application to [email protected]   and [email protected] , which should include 1) a full CV including previous research experience 2) a concise cover letter describing your motivation, career objectives and contact details of 2 professional references.
You can apply for this job no later than 01/06/2024 via the online application tool

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

KU Leuven

Country

Belgium

State/Province

Vlaams Brabant

City

Leuven

Postal Code

3000

Street

Leuven

Geofield

Where to apply

Website

https://easyapply.jobs/r/0ldQkA032Pq1E09KfHR

Contact

State/Province

Leuven

City

Vlaams Brabant

Street

Leuven

Postal Code

3000

E-Mail

[email protected]

STATUS: EXPIRED