cell biology, super-resolution & live-cell imaging
Do you want to pursue a PhD in cellular neuroscience?
Please apply at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU).
Job area: Research, PhD
Educational Level: MSc
VU unit: Faculty of Science
Contract type: Temporary
Minimum FTE: 1
Minimum salary scale: ¤2.443 (PhD)
Maximum salary scale: ¤3,111 (PhD)
Location: AMSTERDAM
Job description
You will be working as a PhD candidate on "the axon initial segment: a checkpoint in neuronal communication", at the department of Functional Genomics.
Description of project
Communication in the brain relies on the ability of neurons to generate electrical signals. The generation of action potentials occurs at a specialized axonal compartment; the axon initial segment. The axon initial segment is a critical checkpoint in the information flow: after integration of somato-dendritic inputs, the axon initial segment determines the neuron’s output which will be further transmitted along the axon to the next neurons in the network. The molecular composition of the axon initial segment is crucial in defining the response generated by a neuron. Recent work has shown that the axon initial segment is highly adaptive and that this property is important for neurons to adjust their activity to their surrounding network. The aim of this project is to understand the molecular mechanisms controlling axon initial segment plasticity; how does this compartment reorganize in response to activity changes and how this is altered in some neurodevelopmental disorders?
In this project, you will use live-cell and super-resolution imaging to assess the dynamics of axon initial segment proteins at high spatio-temporal resolution. The work will be carried out in rodent neurons in culture and human iPSC-derived neurons.
You will be part of international research networks and exploit a variety of techniques and analysis tools available. All the methodology, cell models, equipment, analysis software and viral vectors are available from the start of the project. You will be trained on site and in specialized courses on campus.
Your duties
As a PhD candidate your main tasks and responsibilities are:
Requirements
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with the following qualifications;
What are we offering?
A challenging position in a socially involved organization. The salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel and amounts ¤2,434 (PhD) per month during the first year and increases to ¤3,111 (PhD) per month during the fourth year, based on a full-time employment. The job profile: is based on the university job ranking system and is vacant for at least 1 FTE.
The appointment will initially be for 1 year. After a satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, the contract will be extended for a duration of 4 years.
Additionally, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers excellent fringe benefits and various schemes and regulations to promote a good work/life balance, such as:
About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
The ambition of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is clear: to contribute to a better world through outstanding education and ground-breaking research. We strive to be a university where personal development and commitment to society play a leading role. A university where people from different disciplines and backgrounds collaborate to achieve innovations and to generate new knowledge. Our teaching and research encompass the entire spectrum of academic endeavor – from the humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences through to the life sciences and the medical sciences.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is home to more than 30,000 students. We employ over 5,500 individuals. The VU campus is easily accessible and located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Zuidas district, a truly inspiring environment for teaching and research.
Diversity
We are an inclusive university community. Diversity is one of our most important values. We believe that engaging in international activities and welcoming students and staff from a wide variety of backgrounds enhances the quality of our education and research. We are always looking for people who can enrich our world with their own unique perspectives and experiences.
The Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science inspires researchers and students to find sustainable solutions for complex societal issues. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to medicines and from molecules to the moon: our teaching and research programmes cover the full spectrum of the natural sciences. We share knowledge and experience with leading research institutes and industries, both here in the Netherlands and abroad.
Working at the Faculty of Science means working with students, PhD candidates and researchers, all with a clear focus on their field and a broad view of the world. We employ more than 1,250 staff members, and we are home to around 6,000 students.
About the department, institute
The department of Functional Genomics is part of the Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research in Amsterdam (see www.cncr.nl), and the department of Human Genetics at the Amsterdam UMC location VUmc. Our PhD candidates participate in the Neuroscience Graduate School Amsterdam-Rotterdam (see www.ONWAR.nl)
Application
Are you interested in this position? Please apply via the application button and upload your curriculum vitae and cover letter until May 15, 2022.
Applications received by e-mail will not be processed.
Vacancy questions
If you have any questions regarding this vacancy, you may contact:
Name: dr. Amélie Fréal
Position: Supervisor, team leader at CNCR
E-mail: a.freal@vu.nl
Apply