Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Therapy and Translational Neuroscience : Antwerp, Belgium

VIB is a non-profit research institute in life sciences. About 1,300 scientists conduct strategic basic research on the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for the functioning of the human body, plants, and microorganisms. Through a close partnership with four Flemish universities − UGent, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp, and Vrije Universiteit Brussel − and a solid funding program, VIB unites the forces of 83 research groups in a single institute. The goal of the research is to extend the boundaries of our knowledge of life. Through its technology transfer activities, VIB translates research results into products for the benefit of consumers and patients and contributes to new economic activity. VIB develops and disseminates a wide range of scientifically substantiated information about all aspects of biotechnology. More information: www.vib.be

The Department of Molecular Genetics (DMG) is part of VIB. With near 100 researchers working in 5 research groups, VIB-DMG aims to understand the complex nature of neurological human diseases (http://www.molgen.ua.ac.be/). We dispose over the expertise of centralized service facilities like the Genetic Service Facility, as well as central units with expert knowledge in cell cultures, microscopy, genomics and bio-informatics. We are located at the University of Antwerp in Belgium (http://www.uantwerp.be/en/) and also affiliated to the Institute Born-Bunge, a research institute with a track record in clinical neurological and pathological research into CNS and PNS diseases. The Peripheral Neuropathy Group contributed to the identification of mutations in genes responsible for various types of inherited peripheral neuropathies. We aim to design and apply molecular tools in order to unravel the underlying pathological mechanisms of axonal degeneration and open up perspectives for therapy (http://www.vib.be/en/research/scientists/Pages/Vincent-Timmerman-Lab.aspx).

In frame of the Marie-Curie actions (http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/), we are seeking to recruit a postdoc to develop a new research line in the area of molecular therapy and translational neuroscience. We offer an excellent multidisciplinary team-oriented research environment involving clinicians, molecular biologists, geneticists and bio-informaticians. With the help of the lab, the applicant will apply for a Marie-Curie postdoctoral fellowship. If successful, the applicant will have a 2 to 3 year position in the lab with further possibilities of renewal. There is possibility to be financially supported before the start of the grant through an on-going project.

Profile

• The successful applicant will have a PhD degree in cell biology, biochemistry or a related biological discipline.
• The applicant will be self-motivated, independent and highly creative.
• The applicant is expected to have a strong expertise in biochemistry.
• Knowledge in pharmacology would be a plus.
• Laboratory experience in biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, assay development (e.g. compound screening) would be appreciated.
• The postdoc should also have interest in neuroscience and be a team player with a sense of initiative and responsibility, well-organized and mobile.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills, the ability to obtain independent funding (fellowship) and at least one accepted first-author publication in an international peer-reviewed journal are required. …