Researcher in Neurology
University of Antwerp
Belgium

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

The Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) Post-doctoral researcher in the field of Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Research.

The Laboratory for Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Research at the VIB-Center for Molecular Neurology , led by Dr. Seppe De Schepper, is seeking an outstanding and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher. The selected candidate will lead a project investigating how tissue-resident macrophages in peripheral organs respond to pathological triggers and contribute to early events in neurodegenerative diseases. The researcher will integrate macrophage functional profiling with spatial and molecular approaches to uncover disease-relevant mechanisms. The candidate should be highly motivated to lead the research project with scientific independence, creativity, and initiative. Researchers eligible to apply for an FWO or MSCA fellowship are encouraged to apply.

Position

• Lead and conduct innovative research on how tissue-resident macrophages respond to pathological stimuli and influence brain homeostasis.
• Apply cutting-edge techniques including spectral flow cytometry, spatial and single-cell technologies to unravel macrophage-driven mechanisms in early stages of neurodegeneration.
• Collaborate closely with team members to analyse and integrate cellular, molecular, and spatial insights.
• Design and lead your research project, with sufficient guidance and mentoring.
• Contribute to the mentoring of 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 immunology, neuroscience, neuroimmunology, or related discipline.
• Expertise in macrophage biology and strong interest in neurodegenerative disorders, in particular Parkinson’s disease.
• Proven experience with transgenic mouse models and techniques like spectral flow cytometry and microscopy (FELASA certificate required).
• Experience with -omic approaches and computational tools for data analysis is desirable.
• Solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent teamwork, communication skills, and a commitment to advancing the field of neuroimmunology.
• You comply with the FWO Post-doc and Marie Sklodowska-Curie Post-doc eligibility criteria.

What we offer

• A full-time position initially for 2 years with the possibility for renewal up to 3 years after positive evaluation. We organize a yearly feedback moment. You will be encouraged 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 neurodegeneration, immunology and neurogenetics
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• You will receive 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
• You will do your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

You can apply for this vacancy 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:

1. A cover letter detailing their research interests, experience and motivation to join the team
2. A curriculum vitae, including a list of publications.
3. Contact information for two references.

If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact sebastiaan.deschepper@uantwerpen.be

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.