Postdoctoral Position of Biological Science

Catholic University of Leuven

Postdoctoral Position of Biological Science
 
(ref. BAP-2023-141)
We are currently looking for a highly skilled and motivated postdoc to work with us on a project investigating the role of astrocytes in the control of brain circuits excitability by noradrenaline. The selected applicant will join the Research Group for Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy to investigate astrocytes activity using ex vivo imaging of astrocytes expressing fluorescent reporters of secondary messengers (Ca2+, cAMP). The work will also involve the measurement of neuro- and glio-transmitters levels at the ex vivo scale as well as histological processing of brain tissue. This project is integrated in an exciting multi-lab collaboration between the Research Group Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy (Steven de Vleeschouwer, KU Leuven, UZ Leuven), the Experimental Pharmacology Lab (Dimitri De Bundel and Ilse Smolders, VUB) and the 4BRAIN lab (Kristl Vonck, UGhent). This consortium of labs provides the opportunity to bridge measurements across scales and modalities, combining expertise in astrocyte-neuron interactions, in vitro to in vivo study of circuit excitability, neuromodulation and epileptogenesis.

Responsibilities

The fellow will be granted access to state-of-the-art facilities from the KU Leuven as well as interact with our partners labs in Flanders and Brussels. Career advancement activities, such as presentations at international scientific events, writing of funding proposals and participation in workshops are strongly encouraged.

Profile

Essential:

·       Ph.D. in neurobiology, physiology, biophysics or equivalent.

·       Experience with laboratory animal manipulation

·       Good mastery of English language, both spoken and written.

Appreciated:

·       Experience in live cell imaging of fluorescent reporters

·       Experience with histology techniques

·       Critical mindset and solid problem-solving skills. Fast learner & team player.

·       Project management and effective communication skills.

·       Knowledge of astrocyte biology, neuromodulatory systems and brain circuit excitability control

·       Skills in quantitative data analysis (MATLAB, Python,R,…)

Offer

·       An exceptionally strong scientific environment.

·       Access to state-of-the-art infrastructures.

·       A stimulating, diverse, international research environment in a world-class academic laboratory.

·       Financial support is available for at least 1 year. However, the successful candidate will be encouraged to obtain a personal fellowship (Marie-Curie, HFSP, EMBO, or National funding organizations).

·       Start date: as soon as possible - the position is available immediately.

Interested?

Please send adetailed CV, a motivation letter describing research interests and previousresearch experience, and a list of publications. 

For more information please contact Mr. Jérôme Wahis, tel.: +32 16 37 93 20, mail: jerome.wahis@kuleuven.be.

You can apply for this job no later than July 31, 2023 via the
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 diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.
  • Employment percentage: Voltijds
  • Location: Leuven
  • Apply before: July 31, 2023
  • Tags: Neurowetenschappen
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