Researcher in Neurology

Department: Center for Molecular Neurology

Regime: Full-time

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About the Position

The VIB Center for Molecular Neurology at the University of Antwerp is looking for a full-time Flow Cytometry Specialist in the Laboratory for Gut–Immune–Brain Axis Research.

The Laboratory for Gut–Immune–Brain Axis Research, led by Sebastiaan De Schepper at the VIB–UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, is recruiting a full-time flow cytometry specialist to profile immune cell populations along the gut–brain axis in both mouse models and human samples. The lab runs multiple exciting projects investigating how tissue-resident and trafficking immune cells along the gut–brain axis contribute to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

We are seeking a motivated and technically skilled flow cytometry technician with expertise in spectral flow cytometry, including the design, optimization, and analysis of complex high-parameter panels. You will take a leading role in driving multiple projects and serve as a core resource for the team by supporting, training, and advising researchers. The work will involve diverse and challenging samples from both mouse models and human tissues.

Your Main Tasks

• Develop and implement high-dimensional spectral flow cytometry workflows, from panel design to data interpretation

• Oversee daily instrument operations, including quality control, maintenance, stock management, and protocol standardization

• Provide hands-on experimental support to researchers across the lab, assisting with study design, sample preparation, acquisition, analysis, and data visualization

• Oversee tissue processing workflows, including isolation, digestion, and optimization of single-cell suspensions for reliable immune profiling

• Lead antibody validation, titration strategies, and troubleshooting to improve panel performance and reproducibility

• Training, mentoring, and advising new and existing lab members

• Ensure accurate documentation of experiments and communicate progress and findings regularly with the PI and senior postdocs

• Assist with broader lab operations, including oversight of mouse colonies, reagent stocks, and general laboratory logistics

Profile

Essential Requirements

• You hold a bachelor’s or professional degree in life sciences, biomedical sciences, or bio/industrial engineering, with hands-on laboratory experience

• You have expertise in spectral flow cytometry, including multicolor panel design, optimization, and data analysis (e.g., FlowJo or similar software)

• You have experience with analysing both human and murine samples

• You are interested in supporting scientific research and multiple projects

• You are highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple experiments and priorities simultaneously

• You are comfortable working independently while also contributing actively within a collaborative team environment

• You are proactive, solution-oriented, and eager to troubleshoot and improve workflows

• You are able to independently lead and coordinate cytometry-focused projects from planning to completion

• You are a good communicator with strong written and spoken English skills

• You are flexible, and comfortable working in a dynamic, international research setting

Desirable Requirements

• PhD in biomedical sciences, neuroscience, immunology, or a related field

• Experience working with mouse models (FELASA B or C)

• Programming skills in R and/or Python

• Willing to lead projects independently

What We Offer

• Full-time position on VIB payroll – initially a fixed-term contract of one year, with the opportunity to extend

• A central position and exciting job in a dynamic, innovative and motivated team of scientists

• The opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in an inspiring, supportive and international environment

• Professional development through regular mentorship, training opportunities, and collaborative projects

• A competitive salary package and a stimulating work environment within the VIB Center for Molecular Neurology

• Access to cutting-edge technologies and techniques

• Hospitalization insurance

• Pension plan

• Full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting

• Bike allowance if commuting by bicycle

• Eco-cheques

• Internet fee

• Closing week between Christmas and New Year

Want to Apply?

You can apply for this job through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform. Click on the Apply button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:

• a detailed CV

• a letter of motivation explaining why you are interested in our work and aspire the position of flow cytometry specialist

• contact details of referees (if available)

Starting date: as soon as possible

The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.

If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the Frequently Asked Questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerp.be.
If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Sebastiaan.deschepper@uantwerpen.be.

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Antwerp is a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.