The University of Antwerp, in collaboration with the VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, is offering a postdoctoral position in Computational Neurobiology. This role focuses on investigating the causal mechanisms of cellular decision-making in the human brain, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases.
The successful candidate will work on a project supported by the Alzheimer’s Association, exploring regulatory mechanisms underlying cell-type specific alternative gene isoform switching in various types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Dementia with Lewy Bodies.
Quick Facts
| Opportunity | Postdoc Position |
|---|---|
| Institution | University of Antwerp |
| Department | VIB Center for Molecular Neurology |
| Location | Antwerp, Belgium |
| Region | Europe |
| Open to | International applicants |
| Funding | Partially funded |
| Stipend / Salary | Financial support for two years with opportunity to extend |
| Duration | 2 years, with possibility of extension |
| Start date | February 2027 or as soon as possible after |
| Application deadline | 02 February 2027 |
About the Position
This postdoctoral project aims to bridge gaps in understanding how 3D chromatin organization and epigenetic factors influence alternative transcription start site (ATSS) and alternative transcription termination site (ATTS) choice in neurodegenerative diseases. Key objectives include building isoform-specific regulatory atlases for the human brain in health and disease, identifying causal regulatory elements and transcription factors for ATSS/ATTS choice, and pinpointing putative causal disease isoforms with genetic links to dementia.
Eligibility
- PhD in computational biology, systems biology, bioinformatics, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, functional genomics, or related disciplines
- Solid knowledge and experience in single-cell data analysis and multimodal data integration
- Solid knowledge and experience in reconstruction and analysis of gene regulatory mechanisms
- Solid knowledge of 3D chromatin organization principles
- Intermediate/advanced programming skills in R and/or Python
- Excellent communication and writing skills in English
- Strong academic record
- Experience with analysis of 3D chromatin organization data (beneficial but not required)
- Experience with analysis of proteomics data (beneficial but not required)
- 4-10 years of research experience in Biological sciences, Medical sciences, or Neurosciences
Benefits
- Financial support for two years with opportunity to extend
- Assistance in applying for personal fellowships (e.g., FWO, MSCA, HFSP)
- Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and core experimental and computational facilities
- Dedicated training programs through VIB and UAntwerp
- Stimulating international research environment
- Strong and dynamic network of international collaborators
- Benefit from established network of national and international collaborations and access to centralized facilities (bioinformatics, functional genomics, neuroimmunology)
- Active role in the VIB Center for AI and Computational Biology community
- Located in Antwerp, a culturally and historically rich, and ethnically diverse city
- Part of a sustainable, family-friendly organization with HR Excellence in Research Award
Documents Required
- CV (max 2 pages), detailing dry lab and wet lab skills and publications
- Letter of motivation (max 1-1.5 pages), describing relevant research experience, competitive profile, and how the project fits career trajectory
- Contact details of two referees
How to Apply
- Apply through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform by clicking the 'Apply' button.
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
- Applications will be reviewed as soon as possible, and eligible candidates will be informed about next steps.
Source: EURAXESS.
Details can change – always confirm eligibility and deadline on the official listing before applying.
Featured image: Photo by Google DeepMind on Pexels
