The Laboratory for GutImmuneBrain Axis Research at the VIBCenter for Molecular Neurology is a newly established and expanding research group led by Dr. Sebastiaan De Schepper. The lab focuses on how the peripheral immune system shapes the brain immune landscape in health and disease with a particular emphasis on tissueresident macrophages along the gutbrain axis. We use various transgenic mouse models in combination with immunophenotyping tools and omic techniques to uncover the molecular mechanisms through which the gutimmunobrain axis can contribute to neuropathology.
We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher. The successful candidate will investigate how the peripheral immune system communicates with the central nervous system in the onset and progression of neurological diseases. The project centers on the migration and trafficking of immune cells—particularly myeloid cells along the gutbrain axis examining how these cells contribute to the onset and progression of neuropathology. The candidate should be highly motivated to lead the research project with independence and ownership.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct indepth research on how the peripheral immune system modulates the gutbrain axis and brain homeostasis in health and disease.
- Investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which immune cells travel from the gut to the brain using advanced immunophenotyping fate mapping and omic approaches.
- Collaborate with team members to analyse and integrate spatial transcriptomics and proteomics data.
- Designing and leading your research project but with sufficient guidance and mentoring
- Engage in collaborative projects within the lab and across the VIB community contributing to lab meetings journal clubs and collaborative publications.
Requirements
- PhD in immunology neuroscience molecular biology or related discipline
- Expertise in immune cell phenotyping and strong interest in immune cell trafficking gut brain or gutbrain neuroimmunology
- Proven experience with transgenic mouse models and techniques like flow cytometry and microscopy
- Experience with omic approaches and computational tools for data analysis is desirable
- Solid publication record in peerreviewed journals.
- Excellent teamwork communication skills and a commitment to advancing the field of neuroimmunology.
What We Offer
- A fulltime position initially for one year with the possibility for renewal up to 3 years. You will be encouraged to apply for personal fellowships
- Access to stateoftheart facilities and resources to support cuttingedge research.
- Opportunities to collaborate with top researchers in neurodegeneration immunology and neurogenetics
- A competitive salary and benefits package
- Various highlevel training opportunities to broaden your expertise and skills
- Professional development through regular mentorship training opportunities and collaborative projects
- The planned starting date is 1 March 2025
How to apply
Submit your application through the VIB online application tool and be sure to include:
- A cover letter detailing your research interests experience and motivation to join the team
- A curriculum vitae including a list of publications.
- Contact information for two references.
For more information about our research center