Predoctoral Researcher in Molecular Genetics

The University of Antwerp,Belgium

The University of Antwerp is an international university. Foreign students from all over the world make up 12% of the total student population. Around 100 foreign researchers work as part of UA-research teams. The UA participates in most European educational programmes and has established partnerships with universities around the world. The doctoral study programme (DSP) is one of the opportunities that is offered by the University of Antwerp to its PhD students.
The VIB Department of Molecular Genetics is looking for a Predoctoral Researcher

Job description:
The candidate will work on the following research topic:
Some forms of motor disorders of the peripheral nervous system result in severe atrophy and wasting of distal limb muscles. We identified hotspot mutations in the small heat shock 22kDa protein 8 (HSPB8, HSP22) in several families with distal hereditary motor neuropathy. The project aims to genetically engineer knock-in mice to dissect the HSP22 gene function and to study the neurodegeneration. The project involves the use of molecular and cell biology tools, microscopy techniques and mouse modeling. It will allow the candidate to obtain a PhD degree within a unique multidisciplinary environment.

Profile:

• The candidate should be holder of a university degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bio-engineering (Cell and Gene Technology), Biology or Biomedical Sciences.
• He/she obtained this degree minimally with distinction.
• The candidate uses the English language fluently and has ambition to contribute to a competitive research field as part of a PhD thesis project.
• Previous experience in molecular and cellular biology through a Master thesis, and a FELASA degree is an advantage.
• The candidate has only been active as holder of a scholarship (0 years of service).
• Necessary skills: highly motivated to perform scientific research, able to work independently in team-oriented projects, good sense for team spirit, responsibility and accuracy, well-organized and flexible, mobile and willing to work with animals.

Contact:
Prof. Dr. Vincent Timmerman, PhD
VIB - Department of Molecular Genetics
Peripheral Neuropathy Group
University of Antwerp - CDE
Parking P4, Building V, Room 1.30
Universiteitsplein 1
BE-2610 Antwerpen
Belgium

Tel: +32 3 265 10 24
Tel: +32 3 265 10 02 (Secretary VIB8: Mrs. Gisèle Smeyers)
Fax: +32 3 265 10 12
E-mail: Vincent.Timmerman@ua.ac.be

For more information, please visit the official announcement.