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PhD position – Investigating intracellular metalloproteases in macrophage-mediated inflammation

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position Funding Type Research Assistantship (RA)
  • Application deadlineExpired
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Position Details (PhD Research Project)

The PhD candidate will join the research group of Prof. Jennifer Vandooren who investigates the role of immune cell proteases and their impact on local and systemic inflammations such as neuroinflammation, lung inflammation and sepsis. The laboratory is located at KU Leuven campus Kortrijk and is embedded in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation. The group functions in a highly collaborative setting, fostering strong ties within the Biomedical Sciences groups both at campus Kortrijk (e.g. tissue engineering lab, LATRON group and Data Driven Healthcare) and at campus Leuven (e.g. Immunology groups). Furthermore, the research group is imbedded within the Interdisciplinary Research Facility Life Sciences. This facility serves as a dynamic hub, facilitating collaboration among researchers from diverse disciplines. It promotes research that crosses disciplinary boundaries, drawing in participants from different University Faculties.
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Project

Inflammation is a process that is primarily known as a defence mechanism against infections and injuries. Molecular signatures associated with microbes or tissue damage are sensed by local cells which react by secreting several types of mediators of inflammation such as proteases. These mediators convey chemotactic signals and recruit leukocytes, which contribute to pathogen killing, phagocytosis, activation of adaptive immune responses and healing. Persistent or heightened inflammation leads to inflammatory diseases. Therefore, a finely balanced inflammatory response is essential, culminating in the resolution of inflammation.
We have evidence for a new mechanism of protease regulation during inflammation and tissue healing. This process is essential to macrophage function and has the potential to result into new targets for immunomodulation. We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate who will embark on this project. Methodologies will include isolation, activation and characterisation of primary macrophages, analysis of proteases and models for inflammation. 
KU Leuven campus Kortrijk is an academic community where education and research go hand in hand. Hence, the candidate is also expected to provide teaching support. This includes support with student supervision, exercise and practical sessions for students in Biomedical Sciences and Medicine. 

Profile

Essential requirements:
  • A Master degree in biomedical sciences, bioscience engineering, biochemistry, biology or other relevant discipline
  • A passion for immunology and a strong background in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related fields
  • You are motivated to contribute to education within the bachelor’s programs in biomedical sciences and medicine
  • You are willing to work with patient samples and animal models
  • Strong academic writing and communication skill
  • You can work both independently as well as in team
  • You have a critical mind and are creative
Considered as ‘a plus’:
  • Proven experience in immunological research and/or proteolysis research
  • FELASA B certification
  • Experience with cell culture techniques
  • Experience with protein isolation, purification, and the preparation of protein samples for mass spectrometry

Offer

  • A full-time employment opportunity for a PhD researcher. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of extension based on a positive evaluation.
  • Conduct immunological research in a young and dynamic team
  • To be part of a research environment that fosters collaboration
  • Collaborate with experts at the intersection of biology, biochemistry, immunology and medicine
  • A professional work environment that promotes a healthy research culture

IRF Life Sciences Kulak
Departement of microbiology, immunology en transplantation

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Jennifer Vandooren, tel.: +32 16 32 22 95, mail: [email protected].

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Biochemistry Bioengineering Biomedicine Cell Biology Immunology Molecular Biology

Position Start Date

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