Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of Neuroimmunology and Neuroinflammation

The research groups of Neuroimmunology (NIM) and Microglia and Inflammation in Neurological Disorders (MIND) at VIB-CMN-UA, are excited to announce a call for a joint postdoctoral researcher to study the complexity and heterogeneity of both mouse and human microglia in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. By using state of the art spectral flow cytometry you will develop advanced tools to analyse and study microglia phenotype, function and dysfunction. If you are up for a technological challenge to address key biological questions, this project could be a perfect fit for you.

External and internal post-doc researchers who are eligible to submit an FWO or MSCA post-doc application are invited to apply. The top ranked candidate(s) with the best profile (project proposal & CV) acquire a preparatory post-doctoral research mandate to further develop and submit a competitive research proposal to FWO (Flemish Science Foundation) or MSCA (Horizon Europe Marie Curie fellowships), with the University of Antwerp as host institution.

Project background Understanding the dynamics of microglia in brain disorders is critical for the future development of therapeutics. Microglia are crucial in shaping brain connectivity, as defects in microglia have been recently linked to neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition, genetics of neurodegeneration place microglia as one of the central drivers of disease. The impact of microglia during the progression of neuropathology is dictated by their subtype composition - as different subsets will lead to different functional outcomes. Microglia transcriptional heterogeneity has been widely studied using transcriptomics approaches, however, the exact microglial subtypes involved in physio and pathophysiological processes remain to be elucidated. By applying spectral flow cytometry and developing a multi-dimensional platform to phenotype microglia, you will aim to identify functional subsets of microglia in the context of neurodevelopment and neuroinflammation.

• You hold a PhD in biomedical sciences, biotechnologies or related disciplines.
• You have spent at least 12 months of the three years prior to the start date as a postdoctoral scholarship holder outside Belgium. You did not work or study in Belgium during these 12 months. Short-term stays (e.g. holidays, participation in conferences, preparation for this stay as a postdoctoral scholarship holder) will not be taken into account.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerps educational vision.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• You have excellent communication and writing skills in English
• You comply with the FWO Post Doc and Marie Sklodowska-Curie Post-doc eligibility criteria

• Minimum 3 years hands on experience with complex flow cytometry is required, including panel design, testing, troubleshooting and analysis
• Experience in Immunology or Neuroimmunology
• Experience in working with mouse models (FELASA B or C required)
• Ability to adapt to the research environments while being full members of two labs
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with an ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Experience with Spectral flow cytometry
• Experience with myeloid cells biology
• Basic/intermediate programming skills in R and/or python
• Experience with iPSC and/or cell culturing

As part of the VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology and VIB, the applicant will benefit from established collaborations and access to centralized facilities with expertise in genomics, functional genomics and cell biology, cutting-edge microscopy, flow cytometry, technology development, and bioinformatics. VIB provides a highly interactive environment and ample training opportunities for its researchers.

• The opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in an inspiring, supportive and international environment.
• You can rely on the expertise of two complementary research group for training and guidance.
• A full-time appointment as a postdoctoral scholarship holder for a period of minimum 2 years.
• A preparatory full-time mandate of at least 6 months will be provided, and extended up to two years upon evaluation. Starting date: as soon as possible.
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and core facilities in a vibrant, world-class research environment operating at an international level
• Professional development through regular mentorship, training opportunities, and collaborative projects.
• A competitive salary package and a stimulating work environment within the VIB-Center for Molecular Neurology at Campus Drie Eiken
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for postdoctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff.
• You will benefit from ecocheques, a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.

You can apply for this vacancy through Post-doctoral candidate neuroimmunology and neuroinflammation up to and including April 27th 2025. Be sure to include the following documents:

• Motivation letter describing:
  • your interest in studying microglia pathophysiology (max 1 page)
  • your relevant research experience and competitive advantages,
• A detailed CV, highlighting expertise in spectral flow cytometry, and microglia biology
• Full publication list
• Two letters of Reference

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.

If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Emanuela Pasciuto and Renzo Mancuso.