PhD: studying neurodegeneration using iPSC and xenotransplantation models

13 Apr 2024
Job Information

Organisation/Company

KU Leuven

Research Field

Neurosciences

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country

Belgium

Application Deadline

2 May 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-2024-209

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

No

Offer Description

Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy belong to a broader family of brain disorders characterized by glial and neurodegenerative pathologies. The exact etiology of these diseases remains unclear, but recent studies suggest that oligodendroglial cells may be early contributors to the disease process of these brain disorders.

As a PhD student, you will be responsible for developing innovative oligodendroglial humanized cell and animal models. You will work with human induced pluripotent stem cells, which will be further transplanted into mouse models via xenotransplantation. This approach will enable the study of the role of human cells in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy.

This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on the causes and treatments of neurodegenerative disorders, while developing your own skills and expertise in a stimulating research environment.

Keywords: Neurodegeneration, human pluripotent stem cells, xenotransplantation, alpha-synuclein, animal models, multiple system atrophy, Parkinson's disease

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 position for 1 year, with the possibility of extension
• PhD training in the KUL doctoral school
• Work and collaborate with internationally leading multidisciplinary teams with relevant experience and expertise
• Support with the application for an FWO grant (applying for an FWO grant is a condition)
• If an FWO grant is not obtained, further funding will be considered 
• Competitive salary

Eligibility criteria

• The candidate has a master's degree in medicine, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, biology, bioscience engineering, biochemical sciences or a related discipline.
• Experience with human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is a plus
• Experience with animals is a plus
• Top 25 for grades obtained during Bachelor/Master
• The candidate is motivated to work with complex cell cultures and laboratory animal
• Excellent oral English communication and presentation skills are required
• Passion for research and sense of perseverance
• Critical mind with a great sense of initiative
• Good interpersonal skills
• Since the candidate must apply for a PhD scholarship, a master's degree obtained in the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland is a requirement.

Selection process

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Wouter Peelaerts, tel.: +32 16 37 40 59, mail: [email protected] .
You can apply for this job no later than 02/05/2024 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/Rk5wVGR21HxJGR4gA6sD

Contact

State/Province

Leuven

City

Vlaams Brabant

Street

Leuven

Postal Code

3000

STATUS: EXPIRED