진학프로석·박사 채용 접수 플랫폼

Function

We are looking for one highly motivated PhD candidate with a master's thesis in cell biology, molecular biology, neurosciences or genetics to join our research group in the Development Neurobiology Unit at the GIGA-Stem cells, Liège, Belgium (https://www.gigaldn.uliege.be/cms/c_4226711/en/gigaldn)

Missions

A PhD position is available to investigate the mechanisms underlying sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS), with a focus on the role of Nipbl haploinsufficiency in inner ear development and function.

CdLS is a cohesinopathy frequently associated with hearing impairment, yet the molecular basis of SNHL remains poorly defined. Using the Nipbl+/- mouse model, this project aims to:

- Characterize inner ear development under Nipbl haploinsufficiency (morphological, cellular and molecular analyses of cochlear structures).

- Assess auditory function (ABR, DPOAE) to define the functional impact of Nipbl heterozygosity.

- Investigate molecular mechanisms, with particular emphasis on the TGF-beta signaling pathway, which has been previously shown to be constitutively activated in cohesinopathies and implicated in CdLS phenotypes.

- Conduct preclinical testing of an FDA-approved kinase inhibitor targeting TGF-beta signaling.

Profile

Applicants must have a PhD in a relevant discipline, and interest and experience in molecular, cellular biology, and/or animal models would be an advantage. Excellent written and verbal English communication skills are required. Preference will be given to candidates with an excellent track record of peer-reviewed publications. Having a diploma in performing animal experiments is an advantage.

Work environment

GIGA is an interdisciplinary research center in biomedical sciences whose mission is advanced medical innovation. The institute encompasses more than 600 members with expertise in medical genomics, in silico medicine, neurosciences, cancer, infection and immunity, and cardiovascular sciences. GIGA is the only Belgian research center directly integrated within a university hospital. It is a significant player in translational research, where links between researchers and doctors are at the heart of the research activity.

To meet the increasing demands of multidisciplinary research, the GIGA offers Core facilities, including advanced imaging, flow cytometry, proteomics/metabolomics, deep sequencing, and genome engineering.

We offer

We offer comprehensive training in an innovative field of Neuroscience, a highly stimulating environment, and advanced technologies including in vivo assessment of hearing function, light sheet and super-resolution confocal microscopy, and high-throughput sequencing technologies.

The candidate will have the opportunity to have an attractive 1-year post-doc grant with the possibility of 3 additional years.

How to apply?

Outstanding candidates should apply by email to Dr Brigitte Malgrange (bmalgrange@uliege.be) or Dr Laurence Delacroix (ldelacroix@uliege.be), including a CV, a description of your specific interest in our research program, and contact information for two references.

Deadline for application: position available immediately.