KEY WORDS | neuroscience, zebrafish, microglia |
CITY | Brussels |
COUNTRY | Belgium |
DETAILS OF THE OFFER | Our team is interested in the study of microglia, the resident macrophages of the central nervous system. Mainly, we investigate how the microglial network is established and subsequently maintained, and how these cells contribute to the development or prevention of disease in the brain. To address these fundamental questions, we use zebrafish, a model system that offers unique experimental approaches, and which our lab has contributed to establish as a powerful alternative for microglial investigations in vivo +info. Project: The project will focus on investigating the bidirectional crosstalk that takes place specifically between microglia and neurons, and whose importance in physiology and disease is increasingly supported. We aim to decipher whether neuronal networks modulate microglia identity and functions during the critical period of embryonic development, and whether such interactions may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders. You will use state-of-the-art approaches that include, among others, confocal and light-sheet microscopy, transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis, opto- and chemo-genetics, and single cell omics. Offer: The position is a full-time appointment for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal up to 3 years. The project is funded by the National Fund for Scientific Research (FNRS). Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and competitive salary. We will encourage you to apply for independent funding and mentor you to achieve your career goals Profile: Candidates must hold a PhD degree for no more than 5 years. Eligible applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Belgium for more than 12 months during the 3 years preceding the start of the position. Candidates should have at least 1 first author publication. Previous experience working with zebrafish is an asset but not required. A neuroscience background with technical knowledge of GCaMP based imaging analysis is highly desirable. A very good command of spoken and written English is required and sufficient for communication within and outside the laboratory since Brussels is very international. Main duties and responsibilities: The research will focus on discovering new molecular pathways involved in the crosstalk between neurons and microglia. To achieve this, the candidate will apply and develop novel tools that will enable dissecting those pathways. |
TYPE OF JOB | Postdoc position |
TYPE OF CONTRACT | CDD (temporary / 1 year with the possibility of renewal up to 3 years) |
EMPLOYMENT START DATE | immediately |