Researcher in Neurology

Department: Center for Molecular Neurology
Regime: Full-time (100%)

Let’s Shape the Future – University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university. We offer innovative academic education to more than 20,000 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 6,000 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%) senior researcher to work in the field of molecular and computational genomics of Alzheimer’s disease.

The Sleegers lab is an international team committed to increasing insights into the complex genetics of Alzheimer’s disease and to investigating the translational potential of genetic discovery. We have access to extensive biosample collections and use advanced omics technologies and genetic-epidemiological methods on human study populations to identify molecular mechanisms that can serve as future targets for early detection, prevention, and treatment. Our lab is at the forefront of Alzheimer’s genetics research, and has a strong international network to enhance gene identification, interdisciplinary gene characterization and early biomarker discovery.

We are seeking a highly motivated, critical and creative individual with a strong interest in computational genomics and Alzheimer’s disease to develop and/or apply computational approaches to large-scale genomic or transcriptomic datasets for identification of targets for early detection, prevention or treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Position

• Lead and conduct the processing and statistical analysis of large-scale long-read RNA and DNA sequencing, single nuclei RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics datasets

• 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 national and international projects

Profile

• PhD in genetics, bioinformatics, biomedical sciences, biostatistics, or a related discipline

• Expertise in human genomic and transcriptomic studies and a strong interest in neurodegenerative disorders

• Programming experience, preferably in Python or R, and experience in the Linux environment

• 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 Alzheimer genetics

• Experience with a workflow management system such as Snakemake or Nextflow is a plus

• 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 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

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. Include the following attachments:

• A letter of motivation describing your interests, experience and motivation to join the team

• A curriculum vitae including a list of publications

• Contact information for two references

The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.

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 kristel.sleegers@uantwerpen.be

For more information about the research center: https://cmn.sites.vib.be/en

For more information about the hiring lab: VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology

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 our 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.

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com