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Postdoctoral researcher

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. The candidate should be highly motivated to lead research projects with scientific independence, creativity, and initiative. Researchers eligible for an FWO or MSCA fellowship are encouraged to apply.


Key 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.


Requirements

  • 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
  • Experience with a workflow management system such as Snakemake or Nextflow is a plus
  • 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.
  • 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.  We organize weekly meetings and a formal 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 neurogenetics, neurodegeneration, and immunology
  • The opportunity to publish in top-tier journals, attend scientific conferences and get support in advancing your scientific career
  • 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.
  • Start date: as soon as possible

 

How to apply?

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:

  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 job itself, please contact rosa.rademakers@uantwerpen.be or wouter.decoster@uantwerpen.be

Apply for this vacancy