PhD Position – Unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying Charcot-MarieTooth neuropathies
Description
We are a highly motivated, international team of researchers belonging to the Molecular
Neurogenomics Group
at
the
VIB Department
of Molecular Genetics
(http://www.vib.be/en/research/scientists/Pages/Albena-Jordanova-Lab.aspx), looking
for an enthusiastic colleague who wants to perform his/her PhD study on studying the
molecular mechanisms underlying the most common genetic disorder of the peripheral
nervous system, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
Main topic of our lab is identification and characterization of genes and pathways
implicated in the molecular etiology of Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies. This is our way
to understand the molecular pathomechanisms and design strategies for prevention and
treatment of these devastating diseases. The research strategy is not limited to one
experimental approach, but starts with mutation identification in patients and extends to
study the molecular mechanisms triggered by these mutations in model systems, like
Drosophila, yeast or human cells.
In the advertised research project, the PhD student will use functional genomics, cell
biological, biochemical and structural biological approaches to gain insights into the
molecular etiology of Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies due to mutations in the HINT1
gene (Zimon et al., Nature Genetics 2012). The project will require collaborations with
multidisciplinary teams within the VIB institute and research stays in different
Departments.
As part of the Department of Molecular Genetics (http://www.molgen.vib-ua.be) and VIB
(www.vib.be), the successful applicant will benefit from access to centralized facilities with
expertise in genomics, functional genomics and cell biology, structural biology, proteomics,
cutting-edge microscopy, technology development, and bioinformatics. VIB provides a
highly interactive environment and ample training opportunities for PhD and postdoctoral
researchers. In addition, the VIB Department of Molecular Genetics is located in the city of
Antwerp, the capital of Flanders, offering a culturally and historically rich, and ethnically
diverse environment.
Profile
Predoctoral candidates are expected to have:
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
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Master degree in molecular biology, biochemistry or biomedicine;
Ability to summarize data extracted from the literature, define research objectives,
show self-motivation, flexibility and team spirit;
Mobility
Excellent verbal and written English communication skills
How to apply?
Please e-mail your:
- Detailed CV
- One page motivation letter, description of previous research experience (if any) and
research interests
- Names and addresses of 2 referees
to: albena.jordanova@molgen.vib-ua.be
Contact: More details on the project can be obtained from Prof. Albena Jordanova, PhD
(albena.jordanova@molgen.vib-ua.be)
VIB Department of Molecular Genetics,
University of Antwerp-CDE
Universiteitsplein 1
2610 ANTWERPEN
Tel: +32-3- 265.10.25