比利时鲁汶交叉遗传学博后职位

Basic research in life sciences is VIB’s raison d’être. On the one hand, we are pushing the boundaries of what we know about molecular mechanisms and how they rule living organisms such as human beings, animals, plants and microorganisms. On the other, we are creating tangible results for the benefit of society.

Based on a close partnership with four Flemish universities – Ghent University, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp and Vrije Universiteit Brussel – and supported by a solid funding program, VIB unites the expertise of 74 research groups in a single institute.

VIB's technology transfer activities translate research results into new economic ventures which, in time, lead to new products that can be used in medicine, agriculture and other applications.

VIB also engages actively in the public debate on biotechnology by developing and disseminating a wide range of science-based information about all aspects of biotechnology.
More information: www.vib.be

Description

The Lab of Glia Biology, the VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research at the KU Leuven is currently looking for a skilled postdoctoral scientist to join the team.

Background

The astrocyte is one of the most numerous types of cell in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). They are highly polarized and make contact with both synapses and endothelial cells of the vasculature, allowing them to modulate synapse function and cerebral blood flow by a variety of mechanisms.

The Project

Whether these functional properties are shared by all astrocytes, or just subsets (in discrete brain regions), remains unclear and is an area of intense investigation in neuroscience. However, applying single cell transcriptome squencing methods, we have recently found several astrocyte subtypes in the adult mouse hippocampus.

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing intersectional genetic approaches (such as split Cre-) to specifically manipulate these astrocyte subtypes, catalyzing efforts to understand the developmental lineage and functionality of these cells.

The project represents an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious post-doc to establish themselves at the forefront of a developing field.

Profile

​Candidates must have, or expect to obtain, a Ph.D. degree and be highly trained in modern molecular biology techniques. Experience in viral vector technology and/or generation of transgenic mouse lines is highly desirable.

We offer

The project will be conducted in the lab of Matthew Holt. The group has a strong international track record in studying the molecular basis of CNS function – and has been awarded 2 prestigious ERC grants to work on aspects of astrocyte biology.

The VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research is an international research department with a strong emphasis on neuroscience. Researchers have access to high-end technologies, technical support and core facilities (including viral vector production and mouse genetics), all of which are housed in a new building.

A good knowledge of English is sufficient for all communications, both within and outside the institute. Situated in the heart of Europe (and with excellent transport links), the position is ideally suited to international candidates.