Doctoral scholarship neurosciences and hypoxia-mediated disruption of the blood-brain barrier in multiple sclerosis

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The Laboratory of Experimental Hematology in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences is looking for a a highly motivated and talented individual for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship in the field of Neurosciences and Hypoxia-Mediated Disruption of the Blood-Brain Barrier in Multiple Sclerosis

Position

• You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of (bio) medical sciences. The fellowship is part of a cutting-edge project aimed at uncovering the mechanisms underlying Multiple Sclerosis (MS), with a particular focus on the blood brain barrier dysfunction and hypoxia. In this project, you will (i) investigate the role of vascular endothelial dysfunction in MS using dynamic vessel analysis; (ii) develop advanced in vitro BBB models to study the effects of hypoxia-mediated oxidative stress; (iii) explore the regenerative potential of immune cells in enhancing BBB recovery under hypoxic conditions.. This allows us to better understand the underlyng disease mechanisms of neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), and develop new treatments for MS patients.
• You will conduct independent research within the scope of the project aims and objectives.
• You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and clinicians.
• You will design and perform experiments, analyze data, and interpret results.
• You will present findings at scientific conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• You will participate in regular project meetings and contribute to progress reports and grant applications.
• You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks, such as the guidance and supervision of bachelor and master students in the Laboratory of Experimental Hematology of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Profile

• You hold a master's degree in (Bio)medical Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Bioengineering, or Medicine, or you will obtain the degree by the time of appointment.
• You have a strong background in cellular and molecular biology
• Experience with in vitro models and cell culture is highly desirable
• Your research qualities align with the faculty and university research policies.
• You work in a quality-oriented, honest, creative, and collaborative manner.
• You can demonstrate excellent academic results.
• Foreign researchers are encouraged to apply.
• You are willing to work according to GLP standards.
• You are flexible and can diligently work within a team, you are communicative and stress-resistant, and have a strong perseverance.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of two years. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed for another two years.  
• The planned start date is 1^st of October 2024 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will receive ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including Thursday, August 22, 2024 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
  • the contact information for at least 2 academic references
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. 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. Please note the following dates in your calendar: 3-4-5-6 September 2024 for selection interviews
• 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 Nathalie Cools, Nathalie.Cools@uantwerpen.be

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 its 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.