Researcher in Pharmaceutical Sciences

University of Antwerp

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The Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) Post-doctoral researcher (genetics) to join the team of Prof. Rosa Rademakers.

About the Position

The Laboratory of Advanced and Translational Neurogenomics at the VIB-Center for Molecular Neurology, led by Dr. Rosa Rademakers, is seeking a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join our team. We are an international and multidisciplinary team, integrating research from genetics, epigenetics, transcriptomics, proteomics, biomarker research, and cell models.

Our lab is at the forefront of neurogenetics research, focusing on Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD), a devastating young-onset dementia marked by profound changes in personality, behavior, and/or language. The successful candidate will lead and contribute to cutting-edge projects aimed at identifying causal genes and genetic risk factors underlying FTLD, with a particular focus on neuropathological subtypes characterized by TDP-43 (FTLD-TDP) and FET (FTLD-FET) pathology.

Leveraging our lab’s leadership in global genetics consortia, we have access to extensive biosample collections and have already generated unique short- and long-read whole genome sequencing datasets. This position provides the opportunity to develop and apply advanced bioinformatics tools and conduct innovative analyses, including integrating long-read single-nuclei transcriptomic datasets from the same patient cohort.

Researchers eligible for an FWO or MSCA fellowship are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and conduct the processing and statistical analysis of large-scale short- and long-read sequencing datasets for single nucleotide variants, structural variants, and tandem repeats relevant to FTLD.

  • Use cutting-edge bioinformatics software and methods, or develop novel tools when appropriate.

  • Design and lead your research project, with sufficient guidance and mentoring.

  • Contribute to mentoring junior lab members and participate in grant writing and dissemination activities.

  • Engage in collaborative projects within the lab and across the VIB community, contributing to lab meetings, journal clubs, and collaborative publications.

Profile

  • PhD in genetics, bioinformatics, biomedical sciences, biostatistics, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related discipline.

  • Expertise in human genetic studies and a strong interest in neurodegenerative disorders.

  • Programming experience, preferably in Python or R, and experience in the Linux environment.

  • Experience with large-scale data analysis, such as genomics or transcriptomics data.

  • Solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

  • Proficient in verbal and written English.

  • Excellent teamwork, communication skills, and a commitment to advancing the field of neurogenetics.

  • Experience with a workflow management system such as Snakemake or Nextflow is a plus.

  • Willingness to apply for an FWO Post-doc and/or Marie Sklodowska-Curie Post-doc fellowship, if eligible.

What We Offer

  • A full-time position initially for 2 years with the possibility for renewal after a positive evaluation. Weekly meetings and a formal yearly feedback moment are organized.

  • Encouragement to apply for personal fellowships.

  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support cutting-edge research.

  • Opportunities to collaborate with top researchers in neurogenetics, neurodegeneration, and immunology.

  • The opportunity to publish in top-tier journals, attend scientific conferences, and receive support in advancing your scientific career.

  • A competitive salary and benefits package.

  • Ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.

  • Various high-level training opportunities to broaden your expertise and skills.

  • A dynamic and stimulating working environment at Campus Drie Eiken.

  • Start date: as soon as possible.

Application Procedure

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

  • A cover letter detailing your research interests, experience, and motivation to join the team.

  • A curriculum vitae, including a list of publications.

  • Contact information for two references.

For questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be.
For questions about the job itself, please contact rosa.rademakers@uantwerpen.be or wouter.decoster@uantwerpen.be.

Equal Opportunities

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are 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.

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